Meet the Cast of ‘Project Runway Season 21’

Get ready for needles to fly and creativity to ignite! Project Runway storms back for its landmark 21st season, bringing fresh talent, fierce competition, and iconic glamour to the runway. Aspiring designers from across the globe will battle under intense deadlines, transforming unconventional materials into haute couture and tackling high-stakes challenges that test their technical skill, artistic vision, and mental fortitude. With every stitch, sketch, and styling choice, they’ll fight not just for victory – but for a life-changing chance to break into the cutthroat fashion industry.

Hosted by the legendary Heidi Klum and judged by fashion’s most discerning eyes, this season promises shocking eliminations, jaw-dropping creations, and raw emotional moments. From avant-garde masterpieces to commercial catastrophes, the pressure is relentless as designers face weekly make-or-break critiques. Only one will claim the grand prize: industry mentorship, a cash infusion, and the launchpad to become fashion’s next household name. Don’t miss the drama unfold – premieres June 31, 2025, on Freeform and streams next day on Hulu!

Meet the Fashion Titans Steering the Competition:

1- Nina Garcia as Self (Judge)

Nina Garcia, Chief Creative Officer of Marie Claire and Emmy-winning fashion authority, returns as the franchise’s cornerstone judge. With decades of industry expertise spanning ELLE and Project Runway’s entire legacy, Garcia’s razor-sharp critiques dissect construction, innovation, and market viability. Her iconic phrase “Make it work!” remains the show’s relentless mantra.

Garcia’s unparalleled eye for detail and uncompromising standards set the bar for Season 21. She champions sophistication and wearability while demanding designers transcend clichés. Expect her to challenge contestants on storytelling through fabric, the balance between art and commerce, and the crucial question: “Who is your woman?“

2- Law Roach as Self (Judge)

Superstar stylist and “Image Architect” Law Roach joins the panel, bringing meteoric energy and cultural clout. Renowned for sculpting Zendaya’s revolutionary red-carpet moments and transforming celebrities like Anya Taylor-Joy and Celine Dion, Roach’s philosophy blends vintage reverence with bold futurism. His viral retirement/unretirement cemented his status as fashion’s most unpredictable genius.

Roach’s debut promises electrifying critiques focused on authenticity, brand identity, and emotional impact. He’ll push designers beyond technical skill, asking: “Does it have magic? Does it make me feel?” His presence signals a dynamic shift toward contemporary relevance and red-carpet-ready drama.

3- Heidi Klum as Self (Host)

The inimitable Heidi Klum reclaims her throne as host, returning to the franchise she helmed for 16 iconic seasons. A supermodel, producer, and fashion entrepreneur, Klum’s infectious energy and candid humor define Project Runway’s heartbeat. Her legendary runway introductions (“One day you’re in…“) and designer pep talks are etched in reality TV history.

Klum’s comeback injects warmth and wit into the high-pressure workroom. As mentor and mediator, she’ll champion underdogs, grill designers on their concepts, and deliver the devastating eliminations with signature empathy. Her reunion with Garcia reignites a powerhouse duo ready to crown a new generation.

4- Utica Queen (Ethan Mundt) as Self (Mentor)

Ethan Mundt, aka drag sensation Utica Queen, storms back after dazzling Season 19 as a finalist known for avant-garde craftsmanship (like her sleeping-bag couture). An artiste blending camp, quilting mastery, and surrealist flair, Utica’s designs defy convention while showcasing meticulous technique.

Transitioning from contestant to mentor, Utica offers radical creativity and technical wisdom. She’ll guide designers through conceptual blocks, textile innovation, and fearless self-expression. Her unique perspective bridges artistry and execution, pushing contestants to embrace weirdness without sacrificing wearability.

5- Caycee Black as Self (Designer/Contestant)

Caycee Black emerges as a standout among Season 21’s fresh faces. A rising designer known for sustainable practices and sculptural silhouettes, Black’s pre-show work merges eco-conscious materials with edgy femininity. Her ethos prioritizes ethical fashion without compromising avant-garde impact.

As a contestant, Black’s journey will test her adaptability under fire. Can her zero-waste philosophy survive unconventional challenges? Will her signature draping impress the judges? Her clash of ethics and aesthetics positions her as a compelling dark horse in the competition.