The highly anticipated 21st season of “Project Runway” is set to captivate audiences, marking the triumphant return of iconic host Heidi Klum and relocating its vibrant production to various locales across New Jersey. This move not only signifies a fresh backdrop for the aspiring designers but also brings significant economic activity to the Garden State, reaffirming the show’s enduring appeal in the competitive world of reality television.
Heidi Klum, a beloved figure synonymous with “Project Runway,” makes her grand return as host, a role she previously held for 16 seasons until her departure in 2017. Her reunion with the show promises to reignite the familiar chemistry and high-stakes drama that viewers have come to expect, further cementing the series’ legacy as a premier platform for emerging fashion talent.
Joining Klum is the esteemed Christian Siriano, the victorious designer from the show’s fourth season in 2007, who reprises his crucial role as mentor to the new crop of contestants. Siriano’s practical insights and empathetic guidance remain invaluable to the hopefuls navigating the intense design challenges, offering a blend of creative inspiration and real-world industry perspective.
The production of this season was strategically spread across multiple New Jersey sites, including significant filming at Lincoln High School in Jersey City and a sizable warehouse facility in Lodi. These diverse settings provide unique environments that challenge the designers’ creativity and offer viewers a glimpse into different facets of the state, moving beyond the show’s traditional New York City backdrop.
Economically, “Project Runway” delivered a substantial boost to New Jersey, with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority reporting a remarkable $14 million spent during filming within the state. This considerable expenditure translated into a $4.8 million tax credit for the production, underscoring the tangible benefits that large-scale entertainment projects can bring to local economies.
Before Klum’s return, the show saw other notable figures at its helm, including model Karlie Kloss who stepped in as host when “Project Runway” returned to Bravo in 2019. The show also maintained its high-caliber judging panel, with Elle magazine editor-in-chief Nina Garcia and stylist Brandon Maxwell continuing their roles, providing expert critiques and shaping the future of fashion.
This isn’t the first time “Project Runway” has ventured into New Jersey; the show previously filmed in Hoboken during its first and third seasons, and again in Jersey City’s Hamilton Park in 2012. Subsequent seasons also saw the cameras rolling in Union City, Weehawken, and Kearny in 2013 and 2016 respectively, demonstrating a long-standing connection between the iconic fashion competition and the Garden State’s diverse locales.
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