Heidi Klum is celebrating the 20th season of ‘Germany’s Next Topmodel,’ a show that has evolved since its 2006 launch, inspired by Tyra Banks’ format. Initially focused on height, it now embraces diversity, featuring contestants of various ages and body types. Milestones include the first transgender winner and the introduction of curvy models. The upcoming season promises innovations, including a dual broadcast format highlighting both male and female models, reflecting the changing fashion landscape.
Heidi Klum Celebrates 20 Seasons of ‘Germany’s Next Topmodel’
At 51 years old, Heidi Klum is gearing up for the milestone 20th season of her iconic model casting show, ‘Germany’s Next Topmodel’. This beloved program has a rich and tumultuous history filled with notable records, innovative twists, and unforgettable moments. Here are 20 fascinating facts that reflect on its journey.
From Concept to Reality
The roots of ‘Germany’s Next Topmodel’ trace back to the US, where the legendary Tyra Banks launched ‘America’s Next Top Model’ in 2003 as both producer and judge. Heidi Klum took this successful format and introduced it to German audiences in 2006, with its first episode airing on January 25 on ProSieben.
The inaugural season crowned Lena Gercke, 36, as the first winner, while the show’s fourth season introduced live finale shows, where Sara Nuru, 35, claimed victory. In 2013, Lovelyn Enebechi, only 16 at the time, made history as the youngest winner, a record that will remain intact for the upcoming season, which requires contestants to be at least 18 years old.
Shifting Paradigms of Diversity
Over the years, the show’s standards have evolved significantly. Initially, applicants were judged on height, with a minimum requirement of 1.76 m established in 2013. However, starting with season 16, the show embraced a more inclusive approach, removing height restrictions and celebrating diversity in all forms.
Season 17 featured a remarkable range of contestants, from 1.54 m to 1.95 m tall and ages spanning 18 to 68, showcasing the show’s commitment to representation. Notably, in 2015, Pari Roehi became the first transgender contestant, paving the way for Alex Mariah Peter, 27, who made history as the first transgender winner in 2021. The inclusion of curvy models began in 2018, and Vivien Blotzki, 24, made headlines as the first curvy winner in 2023.
Heidi Klum’s dedication to diversity was recognized with the Blue Panther award in the Entertainment category in 2024, emphasizing her ongoing commitment to promoting change within the fashion industry.
The format of ‘Germany’s Next Topmodel’ continues to innovate, with guest jurors introduced in season 14, providing fresh perspectives each season. The competition has also seen contestants divided into teams, adding a new layer of strategy and camaraderie.
As the show prepares to launch its 20th season, it promises to deliver more surprises, including a unique double broadcast format that will spotlight both female and male models. The journey of ‘Germany’s Next Topmodel’ is a testament to the evolving landscape of fashion and representation, making it a show that continues to captivate audiences.