Overview
Project Runway moved from Lifetime to Bravo after Heidi Klum’s departure in 2018. The first season without Klum aired on Bravo in 2019, hosted by Karlie Kloss. This transition marked a shift in the show’s network, format, and host lineup. Below is a clear, fact-based timeline and explanation of who hosted Project Runway after Heidi Klum, focusing on verified hosts, networks, and notable changes.
Transition From Lifetime to Bravo
Project Runway originally aired on Lifetime with Heidi Klum as host and executive producer for 16 seasons. In 2018, Lifetime and Klum ended their partnership. The series moved to Bravo for its 17th season in 2019, introducing a new host and production framework. This network change affected casting, challenges, and the overall tone of the show.
Karlie Kloss Hosts Season 17 on Bravo
For the first season on Bravo, supermodel Karlie Kloss took over as host, mentored by Brandon Maxwell. Season 17 emphasized design process and accessibility, with a more intimate, conversational style compared to Lifetime’s iterations. Filming moved to New York, and the episode count reduced. While Kloss brought a fresh perspective, the show also introduced spin-off programming like Project Runway: Junior, expanding the franchise’s scope.
Project Runway: Junior and Subsequent Hosting
Following Season 17, Project Runway: Junior became a central component of the franchise. Season 18 maintained Bravo as the network, though host responsibilities shifted. Season 19, titled Project Runway: Junior, featured returning designers and new challenges focused on mentorship. Throughout these iterations, core hosting duties rotated between established fashion figures, ensuring continuity in mentorship and critique while preserving the show’s competition format.
Host and Network Timeline (Post-Heidi Klum)
| Season | Host | Network | Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Season 17 | Karlie Kloss | Bravo | 2019 | First season on Bravo, reduced episode count, New York filming |
| Season 18 | Karlie Kloss | Bravo | 2020 | Continued Bravo residency, digital challenges amid pandemic |
| Season 19 (Project Runway: Junior) | Various mentors, hosted segments | Bravo | 2021 | Mentorship-focused format, junior designers featured |
| Season 20 | Project Runway returns as regular competition | Bravo | 2022 | Revived standard format, new host dynamics |
Key Changes After Heidi Klum
- Network shift: Lifetime to Bravo in 2019
- Host change: Karlie Kloss became the new host
- Format adjustments: Emphasis on mentorship and process
- Introduction of Project Runway: Junior as a core franchise pillar
- Reduced episode counts and digital adaptations in later seasons
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Project Runway end after Heidi Klum left? No. The show transitioned to Bravo with a new host and continued producing seasons.
Why did the show move to Bravo? The move was part of broader programming strategy changes, positioning Project Runway within Bravo’s unscripted portfolio.
Who else has hosted besides Karlie Kloss? Subsequent hosting has involved a mix of returning judges and guest hosts, particularly in Project Runway: Junior formats.
Summary
After Heidi Klum, Project Runway was hosted primarily by Karlie Kloss on Bravo, beginning with Season 17 in 2019. The show maintained its competitive structure while adapting to new hosting, network, and format expectations. Future iterations continued on Bravo, with evolving formats such as Project Runway: Junior maintaining audience engagement.