Heidi Klum has been a key figure on ‘Germany’s Next Topmodel’ since its debut in 2006. As the show prepares for its 20th season in 2025, it has undergone significant changes, including broader age and body diversity among contestants, the introduction of male participants, and evolving jury dynamics. The production format has shifted from pre-recorded to live finales, with new competitive elements and a modern approach to advertising winners, reflecting the industry’s push for inclusivity and representation.
Heidi Klum and the Evolution of ‘Germany’s Next Topmodel’
Heidi Klum, now 51, has been a constant presence on ‘Germany’s Next Topmodel’ since its inception in 2006. As the show gears up to celebrate its 20th season in 2025, starting February 13 at 8:15 PM on ProSieben, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on the significant transformations that have taken place over the years.
The Transformation of the Cast
Initially, the criteria for aspiring models on ‘GNTM’ were quite rigid. The show sought young, slender individuals who fit the traditional mold of beauty. In its early seasons, the minimum age for contestants was set at just 16 years, leading to a cast that often resembled a high school class. For instance, Lovelyn Enebechi, who won at the age of 16 in 2013, was celebrated by Klum as her ‘Meeedchen’ until season 16. However, from season 17 in 2022 onward, the age range for participants expanded dramatically, allowing candidates between 18 and 68 years to apply. This shift prompted Klum to refer to the contestants simply as ‘models’. Notably, Martina Gleissenebner-Teskey, 53, became the first best-age model to reach the finals, securing a third-place finish.
Moreover, the show’s standards regarding height and body measurements have evolved as well. While the initial minimum height requirement was 1.72 meters, it was adjusted to align with international norms of 1.76 meters in 2013. Today, these measurements have been relaxed, and rigid modeling criteria like age and body shape are no longer enforced, showcasing the industry’s move towards diversity.
In 2015, the tenth season introduced Pari Roehi, the first transgender contestant. By 2021, Alex Mariah Peter made history as the first transgender model to win the competition. The inclusivity continued to grow, with curvy models being featured in 2018 for the first time. Fast forward to 2023, and Vivien Blotzki, a 24-year-old curvy model, claimed the title. Season 17 was particularly groundbreaking, featuring models ranging from 1.54 to 1.95 meters in height, with dress sizes from 30 to 54 and ages spanning 18 to 68 years.
The 19th season in 2024 introduced another landmark change: ‘GNTM’ welcomed male contestants, culminating in Jermaine Kothé, 20, becoming the first male winner of the show. As the series approaches its anniversary season in 2025, there will be even more male representation, with two episodes airing each week—Tuesdays for women and Thursdays for men. The two genders will finally meet in the 13th episode on March 27.
Shifts in the Jury and Production
Alongside the cast, the jury has also seen notable changes. Until 2018, Heidi Klum was supported by a consistent lineup of male jurors over the seasons, with a total of twelve jurors, including figures like Peyman Amin and Bruce Darnell. The eleventh season marked a departure from this tradition, introducing a team-based competition with Thomas Hayo and Michael Michalsky coaching contestants in different ways. Klum’s role as the final decision-maker became even more pronounced.
From season 14, the format evolved further with the introduction of guest jurors who assisted Klum in judging the contestants each week.
The production format has also transformed significantly. Initially, Lena Gercke, the first winner in 2006, saw her finale recorded. The show transitioned to a live finale format in its fourth season, which was won by Sara Nuru. The seventh season expanded the live finale to four contestants competing. Notably, the 2015 finale had to be canceled due to a bomb threat, and subsequent finales have been hosted in various large venues. Since season 15, the focus has shifted back to a TV studio setting.
As the show evolved, so did its competitive elements. The introduction of ‘shoot-outs’ in season twelve created direct competition between candidates, while the marketing of winners shifted in 2018 when Toni Dreher-Adenuga graced the cover of ‘Harper’s Bazaar’, departing from the traditional ‘Cosmopolitan’. Furthermore, Alex Mariah Peter marked a shift by not receiving a contract with Klum’s father’s agency for the first time in years, as SAM Artists took over the marketing.
While the iconic make-over episode remains a staple, Klum has expressed a shift in philosophy regarding animal participation in shoots, indicating that exotic animals have no place in today’s modeling landscape, a stark contrast to the early seasons where such practices were commonplace.