Tim Gunn Reflects on Project Runway Absence: "I Was Initially Devastated"

Tim Gunn, known for co-hosting 16 seasons of "Project Runway," confirms he will not return for its upcoming season. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, he shared insights about his situation with the show's future.

Several months ago, Heidi Klum, Gunn's long-time co-host, texted him about the potential of returning together. "Heidi sent me a text saying, 'There's talk about bringing "Project Runway" back with us. Would you do it?'" He felt no hesitation in his affirmative response. "Of course, I would do it," Gunn, 71, stated clearly.

However, as discussions progressed, the tone shifted. Heidi later asked, "Are you happy with your contract?" Gunn's straightforward answer was, "Well, I haven't seen a contract." This fact shocked her. With the help of his agent, they discovered the producers did not want him back.

His agent contested that they had co-hosted "Runway" for 16 seasons and won an Emmy together. Despite this, producers remained firm in their decision. A few weeks later, they offered him a small cameo instead. As Gunn jokingly responded, "What do I do? Wave from a bus?" He declined, insisting on going all in or nothing. As he reflects, "So I wasn't asked to join."

Initially, the news left Gunn feeling devastated and humiliated. Yet, he soon shifted his perspective, appreciating his past experiences. "I thought, how lucky am I to have had those moments over the last 20 years?" he expressed. He realized mourning his absence from the show wasn't justified.

Regarding Klum, Gunn noted she was equally upset by the news. "She kept saying, 'I'm fighting for you,'" he shared. Yet, he reassured her, stating, "Just take good care of yourself. Don’t worry about me. I'll be fine."

Gunn confirmed his plans to watch the show and support Klum. "I have her back, and I’m with her in spirit always," he affirmed.

PEOPLE had previously reported that Klum would be returning to "Project Runway" this season after leaving the show in 2018. Klum originally hosted from 2004 to 2017 and won an Emmy Award in 2013 alongside Gunn.

The new season will include 10 episodes airing weekly, but details regarding judges and the premiere date remain unannounced. After Klum and Gunn's departure, Karlie Kloss first took over hosting duties while Christian Siriano served as mentor. Subsequently, Siriano took over both roles starting in the following seasons.

Originally aired on Bravo, "Project Runway" shifted to Lifetime and is now returning to its roots on platforms like Freeform, Disney+, and Hulu.

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