In the latest episode of Germany's Next Topmodel (GNTM), airing on March 19, 2025, the stage was set for dramatic eliminations and powerful photo shoots. With the atmosphere charged with excitement, host Heidi Klum welcomed her favorite judges, Bill and Tom Kaulitz, making their presence felt on the set.
As the evening unfolded, the tension was palpable among the contestants, especially as the stakes were raised. Klum's unique way of connecting with the participants was evident when she invited them to the iconic Hofbräuhaus in Munich to foster a sense of camaraderie amidst the competitive stress. Amid the jovial atmosphere, she and contestant Jannik shared a spontaneous dance to the lively sounds of a brass band.
However, the camaraderie was short-lived as the following day the male candidates faced a grueling Sedcard-Shooting that left several feeling unprepared. Contestants Ethan and Jonathan expressed their dissatisfaction with the lack of readiness, especially as they had to bare it all in a high-pressure photo shoot with renowned photographer Yu Tsai. "I will be tougher than your fitness trainer," Tsai warned, setting the tone for a rigorous session.
Jonathan struggled particularly under Tsai’s intense scrutiny, describing his first experience with the photographer as "very unsympathetic." Despite having four years of modeling experience, his performance failed to impress, resulting in his elimination alongside fellow contestant Felix S. and Ryan, marking a significant cut in the competition.
Pierre emerged unexpectedly as the star of the shoot, buoyed by a newfound confidence after his successful nude shoot the previous week. He surpassed expectations, prompting Tsai to comment, "You dare to change in front of the camera and are unafraid. Maybe you were the only one who transformed today." This accomplishment led Heidi to acknowledge the positive vibes around him, comparing it to the high spirits of iconic Austrian musician, Falco.
The episode’s drama was further amplified by Bill Kaulitz’s candid admission of feelings for contestant Samuel, sparking potential romantic interests within the house. "Wow! In you, I’m a little in love," he highlighted, adding a personal layer to the competition.
Amidst the swirl of spotlight and emotional stakes, Klum maintained her authority, clarifying that the male contestants were to strut confidently on the catwalk. "I want the men to walk tough, not feminine," she declared before they took on the challenging water catwalk at Munich's historic Müller'sche Volksbad. Walking over the glass runway submerged beneath water on just their briefs was a unique twist, adding both fun and risk with Heidi playfully warning about the potential of slipping.
The evening came to a climax as Heidi, who seemed particularly smitten with her husband Tom's participation in the judging panel, relaxed the competitive tension by reminding contestants about the importance of teamwork. Tom’s involvement brought a sense of warmth and lightheartedness to the atmosphere, with Klum noting, "It's great to integrate your family into the working environment. We go to work together and come home together; it’s a blast!"
As the show approached its end, the stakes heightened with the elimination of Jonathan, who was previously aware of his struggle with the camera, while two others, Felix S. and Ryan, shared his fate. This left viewers hanging onto the remaining competitors as they geared up for what would come next.
The sense of drama, humor, and intensity encapsulated in GNTM keeps audiences at the edge of their seats, showcasing the highs and lows of the model search, proving once again that the journey to becoming a top model is as thrilling as it is grueling.
Klum’s inspired ability to navigate the balance between competition and personal connection resonates not just with the contestants but with millions of fans watching at home. The blending of family laughter and serious competition does indeed make for compelling television.
As the credits roll, viewers are left with a mixture of anticipation and excitement for the next episode where more alliances will be formed, friendships tested, and models either triumphing or falling short in their quest of a lifetime.
