Fashion icon Tim Gunn has revealed he will not be returning alongside Heidi Klum for Project Runway's upcoming 21st season, sharing his disappointment at being left out of the show's latest iteration.
In an exclusive interview with People, Gunn disclosed that producers opted not to bring him back to the fashion competition series, which is moving to Freeform, Disney+ and Hulu. "I wasn't asked back," Gunn stated, describing his initial reaction as "devastated, then kind of humiliated."
The revelation came after Klum, who is departing America's Got Talent, texted Gunn asking about his contract. Upon checking with his agent, Gunn learned the show's executive producers had decided against his return, despite his 19-season tenure and shared Emmy win with Klum for Outstanding Host.
When offered a single-episode cameo appearance, Gunn declined. "As Heidi would say, 'You're either in or you're out.' And I'm out," he remarked, referencing the show's famous catchphrase.
Gunn and Klum's partnership spans 16 seasons of Project Runway, beginning in 2004. After leaving the show in 2018, they co-hosted Amazon Prime Video's Making the Cut for three seasons. Despite this professional setback, Gunn maintains his friendship with Klum remains strong, and he plans to support her from afar.
The upcoming season of Project Runway will feature 10 weekly episodes, with additional details about judges, contestants, and premiere dates yet to be announced. The show's new chapter will proceed without Gunn's memorable presence and his iconic phrase, "Make it work!"