In what has become a riveting season of "Germany's Next Topmodel," 2025 is not just about the fierce competition; it’s also about monumental changes to the format. For the first time, the show features both male and female contestants competing for the coveted title. Since its re-launch on February 13, the stakes have only heightened as the contestants brave new challenges presented in a thrilling double-header format.
This season, the spotlight shines on both genders, as the women are showcased on Wednesdays and men on Thursdays, with each episode airing at 8:15 PM on ProSieben. This evolution not only allows fans to immerse themselves deeper into the modeling world but also puts intense pressure on the contestants to perform at their best.
In episode 11, which aired in March, the women faced off in a dramatic showdown in Los Angeles, where they were pushed to their limits during four rigorous castings and a spectacular fashion show. As the contestants strived to stand out, the elimination decisions became even tougher for the iconic host, Heidi Klum. Ultimately, the harsh reality set in when Laura (25, from Holzkirchen) did not receive a photo from Heidi, marking her elimination, along with Safia (24, from Dortmund), who withdrew due to health concerns.
Meanwhile, the previous episode brought high stakes for the male contestants during their Sedcard shooting and a challenging walk across a pool Catwalk, where they faced slippery conditions under the watchful eyes of judges Bill and Tom Kaulitz, both 35. This concern for applause resulted in a drastic decision, forcing the elimination of Jonathan (25, Olching), Felix S. (30, from Vienna, Austria), and Reality TV star Ryan (22, from Landshut), from the competition as they struggled to impress the jury.
In episode 9, the male contestants took a moment to shine as the women participated in a Sedcard shooting and a '60s-themed runway challenge, judged by none other than fashion icon Twiggy. Amidst the retro vibes of the swinging sixties, Jule (21, from Stuttgart) lost the chance to move to LA, as she was eliminated after failing to impress the judges during her performance.
This whirlwind journey didn’t stop there. Episode 8 required the male contestants to undergo dramatic makeovers, and for Felix F. (27, Stuttgart), that meant parting ways with his signature pink hairstyle. But that did little to help him, as he faced criticism for his performance in a Future-Walk challenge scrutinized by judges Lena Gercke (37) and Johannes Huebl (47). “He walks as if he’s just made a mess!” remarked Huebl, leading to Felix's disheartening elimination along with Gabriel (23, Vira, CH) and Christian (23, from Kärnten, Austria).
In the previous weeks leading to episode 7, the women experienced their own style transformations, with Klaas Heufer-Umlauf joining Heidi to oversee their makeovers. However, not all transformations were successful; despite a six-hour session, Natalie (25, Frankfurt am Main) along with Lucia (21, Hannover), Valeria (21, Oldenburg), and Stella (23, Berlin) were sent home.
Episode 6 played host to further celebrity guest judges like the esteemed Catherine Deneuve (81) and model David Gandy (45). Yet, the performance of many male participants failed to meet expectations, leading to the exit of Konstantin (23, Möhringen), Enis (23, Schweinfurt), and J.J. (34, Mönchengladbach).
The preceding episode saw models receive their much-anticipated model portfolios, but not all who awaited good news found it, leading to the exits of Angelina (20, Kempten), Marlene (22, Mannheim), Leila (22, Fürth), Jessica (21, Beckenried, CH), and Marie (21, Ehrenkirchen).
In episode 4, the brutal reality of the competition hit home as 23 male contestants were eliminated. With room for only 25 in the model house, the atmosphere grew tense, prompting Jonathan to voice, “This is anarchy,” in reaction to the shocking eliminations.
Episode 3 sharpened the focus on performance, with Angela voluntarily leaving the competition, while Leila was extended a lifeline, awarded a makeshift couch space due to a lack of available beds in the model house.
In episode 2, the male applicants faced an intense trial. Out of 100 contestants, only 48 advanced, creating a sense of frustration for repeat offender Julian, who had exited voluntarily the previous year only to be eliminated early again.
The season opener was nothing short of dramatic, with 51 female participants entering only to face immediate elimination. Emotions ran high, especially for Marlene (20), who felt the pressure of familial expectations, and Ceyda (22), who broke down in tears, expressing feelings of hatred towards the world.
As 'Germany's Next Topmodel' embarks on this new chapter with unprecedented challenges and eliminations, fans remain eager to see who will ultimately rise to the top in the race for modeling glory. The stakes grow higher weekly, and anticipation builds as viewers tune in to witness the fierce competition unfold.
