Nina Garcia talks season 21 of ‘Project Runway’ as the iconic show makes a highly anticipated return today, July 31, 2025, featuring a rejuvenated judging panel and the comeback of original host Heidi Klum.
The latest season of the long-running fashion competition brings together Nina Garcia, ELLE’s editor-in-chief, who has been the backbone of the judging panel since the show’s 2004 debut. Joining Garcia are celebrated fashion mentor Christian Siriano and “image architect” Law Roach. Season 21 airs on Freeform and will be available for streaming on Disney+ and Hulu, opening up the runway to a broader, global audience.
What’s Exciting About Season 21
- Heidi Klum returns after an eight-year hiatus, stepping back in as the face and spirit of the series.
- Nina Garcia remains the only judge who has been on every season, lending her unmatched fashion expertise.
- Law Roach officially joins the panel, bringing sharp critique and fresh insight to the judging process.
The New Designer Lineup
This season welcomes a mix of new talent and familiar faces. Notably:
- RuPaul’s Drag Race alum Utica (Ethan Mundt)
- Returning contestants such as Jesus Estrada and Caycee Black
- Designers representing international flair, including Vee Floresca from the Philippines
- Additional designers like Antonio Estrada (Jesus’s twin), Alex, Angelo, Bel Daley, Madison, McR, Mad Malenfant, and Yuchen Han
The show promises plenty of drama, including a spotlighted clash between judge Nina Garcia and contestant Antonio Estrada, previewed in promotional clips as a must-watch moment for fans craving runway intensity.
Why Heidi Klum’s Return Matters
Heidi Klum helped define Project Runway’s legacy and, after leaving in 2017 post-season 16, she returns to host where she left off. Her signature style and energy are expected to transform the workroom, already stirring excitement among judges and designers alike.
- Klum describes her return as a ‘homecoming,’ and fans are eager for her brand of “tough love”.
- Christian Siriano reprises his role as mentor (having won season 4 himself), supporting designers as they strive to impress this formidable judging panel.
What Viewers Can Expect
The season is being hailed as one of the boldest yet, with:
- 10 weekly episodes, each packed with dramatic runway reveals and guest judges, including Tyra Banks, Sofía Vergara, and Zac Posen.
- A new home for many: the show’s move to Freeform (with streaming on Disney+ and Hulu) signals a push to engage a younger, digital-first audience.
- Weekly challenges that demand “expensive, fabulous, modern” designs set in a refreshed workroom, demanding creativity and resilience from the contestants.
Key Cast Table
| Role | Name | Notable Fact |
|---|---|---|
| Host | Heidi Klum | Returns after 8 years away |
| Judge | Nina Garcia | Only judge from all 21 seasons |
| Mentor | Christian Siriano | Season 4 winner, returns to guide designers |
| Judge | Law Roach | New judge, brings bold opinions and fresh energy |
Nina Garcia’s Take
Nina Garcia has described the new season as “spicy” and says the chemistry among the judges is better than ever. She remains committed to tough, fair feedback. Clips show her delivering one particularly blistering critique, sparking tears and real emotion from the contestants—a reminder of what’s at stake when dreams meet reality on the runway.
Closing Thoughts
Nina Garcia talks season 21 of ‘Project Runway’ as a real evolution for the iconic series, with fresh faces and fan favorites clashing and collaborating for the coveted grand prize. With an updated home, an electric panel, and the high-stakes drama fans love, this season promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
What do you think about Heidi Klum’s return and the new mix of designers? Share your thoughts below—join the conversation and let your fashion voice be heard!