Heidi Klum and Tim Gunn are heading to Amazon. The fashion-forward duo announced on Friday, September 7, that they will not return for season 17 of Project Runway, but instead are going to develop a new reality series for the streaming service, Us Weekly confirmed.
“After 16 incredible seasons, I am saying ‘Auf Wiedersehen’ to Project Runway, a show that I was honored to host and help create,” the supermodel, 45, said in a statement. “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. I’m most excited that my journey with my dear friend and colleague, Tim Gunn, is far from over.”
Gunn echoed her sentiments.
“I am grateful to Project Runway for putting me on a path I never, in my wildest dreams, thought my career would take me. I am so proud to have been a part of the groundbreaking process that showcased talented young designers as never before,” the 65-year-old TV personality said. “Most importantly, I am indebted to our incredible fans, they are the heart and soul of what we do, and continue to inspire us to raise the bar in this arena. I’m excited for them to see what’s next, as I partner with Amazon and Heidi Klum on our next great ‘fashion’ adventure.”
Project Runway premiered in 2004 on Bravo, where it lived for five seasons. It then relocated to Lifetime for the next 11 seasons, but is set to return to Bravo for season 17 in 2019. No premiere date has been announced.
“Bravo is proud to bring Project Runway back where it all began, and Heidi and Tim will always be a huge part of the legacy,” the network said in a statement on Friday. “The series will continue its iconic impact with Bravo’s reboot for the next generation of designers and fans. We are excited to announce our new host and mentor very soon.”
Klum has hosted all seasons of the show, while Gunn has acted as a mentor to the designers. The show has launched the careers of designers including Christian Siriano and Leanne Marshall.
Shortly after the news came out, Zac Posen also announced he will not return to season 17. The designer served as a guest judge on season 3, a recurring judge on season 4 and a main judge on seasons 11 through 16.
“Working alongside Heidi, Nina and Tim as a judge for six seasons of Project Runway was one of the greatest experiences of my career,” he told Us in a statement. “I will cherish the opportunity the show gave me to learn from and grow with my co-judges, the producers, crew and designers. Runway has led to incredible opportunities and I am currently at work on some new projects that I am very excited to share with you soon. I wish the show and everyone much success always.”
