Tim Gunn Says Project Runway Didn’t Invite Him to Return With Heidi Klum

Tim Gunn, the beloved former co-host of Project Runway, has revealed that he was not invited back for the fashion competition’s upcoming season 21 revival on Freeform, Disney+, and Hulu. In a candid interview, the 71-year-old fashion mentor shared his disappointment and feelings of humiliation over being left out, despite his longstanding association with the show.

Tim Gunn’s Unexpected Exclusion from ‘Project Runway’

After co-hosting 16 successful seasons of Project Runway alongside Heidi Klum, Gunn had high hopes of returning when talks of a revival surfaced. However, despite initial excitement, things took an unexpected turn when he realized he wasn’t part of the new season’s lineup.

“Heidi sent me a text saying, ‘There’s talk about bringing Project Runway back with us, with you and me. Would you do it?'” Gunn recalled during an interview with People on February 14. “And I said, ‘Would I do it? Of course! There’s not a moment of hesitation in me.'”

Despite his enthusiasm, Gunn never received an official invitation from the show’s producers. Months later, Klum followed up with another message, which made Gunn realize something was amiss.

“She sent me a text asking, ‘Are you happy with your contract?’ and I responded, ‘Well, I haven’t seen a contract,'” Gunn revealed.

After reaching out to his agent, Gunn discovered the truth: the new executive producers had deliberately decided not to bring him back. “My agent contacted them, and they simply said, ‘We don’t want him,’” he explained.

Producers Offered Tim Gunn Only a Small Cameo

Despite being a fan-favorite and an integral part of Project Runway’s success, Gunn was only offered a cameo—a role he found both dismissive and inappropriate given his history with the franchise.

“My agent tried reasoning with them,” Gunn said. “He pointed out that Heidi and I won an Emmy for hosting together in 2013. But all they were willing to offer me was a ‘small cameo’ in the first episode.”

He humorously described the proposed role, saying, “What do I do? Wave from a bus? Or does Heidi visit me at a retirement home where we play croquet? No, thank you. And as Heidi would say, ‘You’re either in or you’re out.’ And I’m out.”

Gunn’s departure from the Project Runway reboot leaves a significant void, as he was known for his mentorship and iconic catchphrase, “Make it work!”

How Tim Gunn Felt About the Snub

The rejection was initially difficult for Gunn to process.

“I was devastated at first,” he admitted. “Then I felt kind of humiliated because it wasn’t like I was even given a chance to decline. I wasn’t wanted.”

However, he quickly shifted his perspective, recognizing the incredible journey he’s had throughout his career. “I stopped the boo-hooing, and I came to terms with it. Sure, I’m disappointed—especially because I won’t get to work with Heidi Klum again—but things happen for a reason.“

Heidi Klum’s Reaction to Tim Gunn Being Left Out

One silver lining for Gunn was Heidi Klum’s unwavering support. Despite securing her return as Project Runway’s host, she expressed disappointment over the decision to exclude Gunn.

“She was really upset, and she kept telling me, ‘I’m fighting for you, I’m fighting for you,’” Gunn recalled. “Which is lovely of her and nothing I should expect. I told her, ‘Heidi, just take good care of yourself. Don’t worry about me. I’ll be fine.’”

Klum and Gunn have been inseparable in the fashion world, and their professional relationship extended beyond Project Runway. After they both left the show in 2017, they collaborated on Amazon Video’s Making the Cut, which ran for three seasons.

The Legacy of Tim Gunn on ‘Project Runway’

Gunn was an essential part of Project Runway’s success, mentoring countless aspiring designers and guiding them through the competition. His constructive criticism, warm encouragement, and signature charm made him a standout personality on the show.

His departure in 2017, along with Klum, marked a significant turning point for the series. Many fans believe that Project Runway was never the same without the iconic duo leading the way.

Despite his absence from the revival, Gunn remains a legend in the fashion industry. His impact on Project Runway is undeniable, and his mentoring style has left a lasting influence on aspiring designers worldwide.

Tim Gunn’s Future in Fashion

Although disappointed by the Project Runway snub, Gunn is not slowing down. He continues to explore new opportunities in the fashion world and remains active in mentoring and design education.

“I’m still incredibly grateful for everything I’ve done and for all the opportunities I’ve had over the years,” Gunn said. “I have been lucky enough to work with some of the most talented designers, and that’s something no one can take away from me.”

When asked whether he would consider returning to a similar fashion competition show, Gunn said he wouldn’t rule it out. “If the right project comes along and it feels like a good fit, I’d definitely be open to it. Fashion is my passion, and I will always want to be part of it.”

What’s Next for ‘Project Runway’ Without Tim Gunn?

With the Project Runway revival moving forward without Gunn, fans are left wondering whether the show can recapture the magic of its earlier seasons. While Heidi Klum’s return is exciting, many argue that the chemistry between her and Gunn was irreplaceable.

Will the new season resonate with long-time viewers? Can the show maintain its legacy without one of its most beloved mentors? Those questions remain unanswered, but one thing is certain: Tim Gunn’s influence on the show will never be forgotten.

Final Thoughts

Tim Gunn’s absence from the Project Runway revival is a reminder of how unpredictable the entertainment industry can be. Despite being a key figure in the show’s success, behind-the-scenes politics and producer decisions ultimately dictated his exclusion.

However, Gunn remains gracious and optimistic, focusing on his storied career and the new possibilities ahead. Whether he returns to another fashion competition or pursues a completely different venture, fans will always support him.

For now, viewers will have to watch Project Runway season 21 without its most legendary mentor. But one thing is for sure: Tim Gunn will always be a fashion icon, whether he’s on the show or not.