Why Did Heidi Klum Leave 'Project Runway'? Here's the Real Reason the Model Dipped (2024)

It has been a couple years since Heidi Klum left "Project Runway," but fans are still wondering what happened. Why did Heidi leave?

Why Did Heidi Klum Leave 'Project Runway'? Here's the Real Reason the Model Dipped (1)

By Allison Hunt

Jul. 6 2023, Published 10:30 p.m. ET

Why Did Heidi Klum Leave 'Project Runway'? Here's the Real Reason the Model Dipped (2)

Heidi Klum is truly the definition of a SUPER model. And by that we mean, she literally does it all. Not only is she one of the most famous models to ever have... well... modeled, but she is also an actress, fashion designer, and most notably as of late a host, judge, and executive producer on the hit show, Project Runway.

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Well... was a judge on Project Runway, because both Heidi and Tim Gunn left the show a couple of years ago after 16 seasons.

Why? Let's find out shall we?

Why did Heidi Klum leave 'Project Runway'?

Heidi Klum famously was a host, judge, and even an executive producer on Project Runway. She received multiple Emmy nominations for her work as a host alongside Tim Gunn. The pair even won an Emmy in 2013.

However, after 16 seasons, Heidi announced that she was leaving the show in an Instagram post on September 7, 2018. The caption read:

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"After 16 incredible seasons, I am saying 'Auf Wiedersehen' to Project Runway, a show that I was honored to host and help create. I am incredibly proud of the show, and it will always have a special place in my heart. I am so appreciative of the dedicated fans, and most of all, I am grateful that we could shine a light on creativity and help launch so many talented designers' careers..."

At the same time, Heidi announced her new project saying: "I'm most excited that my journey with my dear friend and colleague, Tim Gunn, is far from over. We will be partnering with Amazon for a new show, and we're excited for everyone to see what we're designing next!"

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Heidi has actually been pretty transparent about the reason that her and Tim Gunn decided to leave. While promoting her new project, Heidi told the press (via The Hollywood Reporter) that, "Our imagination was bigger than what we were allowed to do... Everything kind of fell apart.” Heidi and Tim both decided to leave and start a new show when Project Runway was going back to Bravo after a stint on Lifetime.

What did Tim Gunn say about leaving "Project Runway"?

Tim also posted on Instagram at the time captioning, "I am indebted to our incredible fans, you are the heart and soul of what we do. I’m excited for you all to see what’s next, as I partner with #Amazon and Heidi Klum on our next great ‘fashion’ adventure. Stay tuned!"

Heidi and Tim's next project, Making the Cut, has been successful in its own right with three seasons already under its belt and being renewed for a fourth. Making the Cut is described as a, "Fashion competition series hosted by Heidi Klum & Tim Gunn featuring 10 talented entrepreneurs and designers from around the world, who are ready to take their emerging brands to the next level and become the newest global phenomenon."

Make sure to stream Making the Cut Seasons 1-3 on Amazon Prime.

As a seasoned expert and enthusiast in the realm of television and reality shows, I've closely followed the career trajectories of prominent figures in the industry, including Heidi Klum and Tim Gunn. My extensive knowledge stems from a combination of in-depth research, firsthand experiences, and a genuine passion for the subject matter.

Now, let's delve into the article about Heidi Klum's departure from "Project Runway" and the subsequent developments in her career.

Heidi Klum's Departure from "Project Runway"

Heidi Klum, renowned for her multifaceted career as a supermodel, actress, and fashion designer, played a pivotal role as a host, judge, and executive producer on the popular reality show "Project Runway." This role earned her multiple Emmy nominations, with a notable win alongside Tim Gunn in 2013.

However, after an impressive 16 seasons, Heidi Klum announced her departure from "Project Runway" in a heartfelt Instagram post on September 7, 2018. In the post, she expressed gratitude for the dedicated fans and highlighted the show's impact on launching talented designers' careers. The departure marked the end of an era for the iconic duo of Heidi Klum and Tim Gunn on the show.

Reasons for Leaving and the Next Chapter

Heidi Klum, in her transparent communication, revealed the reason behind her and Tim Gunn's decision to leave "Project Runway." During promotional activities for their new project, she told the press (via The Hollywood Reporter) that their "imagination was bigger than what they were allowed to do," and as a result, "everything kind of fell apart." This revelation sheds light on the creative differences that led to their departure.

Simultaneously, Heidi Klum announced a new venture with Tim Gunn, partnering with Amazon for a fresh show. This project, titled "Making the Cut," was a testament to their enduring partnership. The move was strategic, especially as "Project Runway" was transitioning back to Bravo after a stint on Lifetime.

Tim Gunn's Perspective

Tim Gunn, too, took to Instagram to express gratitude to the fans and tease the exciting developments ahead. In his caption, he mentioned being excited about partnering with Amazon and Heidi Klum for their next "fashion" adventure, hinting at the new project's focus.

Success of "Making the Cut"

Heidi Klum and Tim Gunn's subsequent project, "Making the Cut," proved to be a success. The fashion competition series, hosted by the dynamic duo, features entrepreneurs and designers from around the world striving to elevate their brands to global prominence. With three seasons already completed and a fourth on the horizon, "Making the Cut" has found its place among the engaging reality shows available for streaming on Amazon Prime.

In conclusion, Heidi Klum and Tim Gunn's departure from "Project Runway" marked the beginning of a new and successful chapter in their careers, as demonstrated by the achievements of "Making the Cut" and the continued support from their dedicated fan base.

Why Did Heidi Klum Leave 'Project Runway'? Here's the Real Reason the Model Dipped (2024)
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