The excitement is building as "Germany's Next Topmodel" gears up for its much-anticipated 20th season, set to premiere on February 13, 2025, at 20:15 on ProSieben and streaming live on Joyn. Celebrated host Heidi Klum returns to the helm of the reality TV phenomenon, which has become a staple of German entertainment since its inception. This year, the series is breaking barriers and introducing some fresh tweaks to its traditional format to commemorate its two-decade legacy.
For the first time since its launch, GNTM will feature separate weekly episodes focused on male and female contestants during the initial weeks of the competition. Klum confirmed, "Many great people have applied for my 20th season. Since all these wonderful personalities can't fit in one Thursday night, there will now be six weeks where it’s just boys." Starting with the female contestants on Thursdays, the male models will have their debut the following week on Wednesdays. Following the separation, both genders will unite as the competition intensifies, starting from the 13th episode on March 27.
The response to the show's casting call was overwhelming, with over 10,000 aspiring models flocking to Berlin for auditions. For the 2025 season, Klum emphasized the importance of subjective intuition when selecting the contestants, stating, "I really listen to my gut feeling. The people I choose need to have something special about them – that's important to me." This season embraces inclusivity, featuring both male and female models, and aims to highlight diversity more than ever.
Famed guest judges are also set to bring their expertise and charisma to the judging panel. Among those expected to contribute their insights are legendary supermodel Naomi Campbell, French actress Catherine Deneuve, and iconic 60's model Twiggy. Joining them will be Klum's daughter, Leni, who will step up as guest juror, helping her mother navigate the competition. This season promises to be filled with surprises, not just for viewers but also for the contestants themselves.
The initial casting includes approximately 100 women and nearly 90 men, each vying for the coveted title and prizes. While 2025 sees the return of male contestants for the second consecutive year, the show is dedicated to showcasing broader diversity, with Klum expressing interest in including models of various sizes and backgrounds, stating, "This year, we also have plus-size men, one best-ager man, and two best-ager women participating." This is part of her broader commitment, ensuring the show's evolution to represent every part of the modeling spectrum.
Expectations for the season are sky-high. Contestants these days aren’t just competing for the title of “Germany’s Next Topmodel” but also standing to win substantial rewards. The top two winners will receive €100,000 each and gain prestige by gracing the cover of "Harper's Bazaar" – both coveted prizes within the fashion industry.
GNTM has continually adapted its format and rules to avoid irrelevant controversies of the past and has worked meaningfully to promote body positivity and diversity. For this milestone season, alongside the showcase episodes, there is also the introduction of "Germany's Next Topmodel Stories," which will offer viewers exclusive insights behind the scenes and the personal experiences of the models throughout their time on the show.
Scheduled for release right after the premiere, this spin-off promises to deepen the audience's connection to the participants and add another layer to the viewing experience.
The excitement reaches its peak as the premiere night approaches, and fans are eager to see how this edition of GNTM will carry forward the legacy of its predecessors. Glimpses of the extraordinary talents participating this year have already sparked intrigue, and the energy of competition is palpable.
With so much to look forward to and historical moments anticipated for the jubilant 20th season, tune in on February 13 on ProSieben and join the ride through glam, grit, and greatness as Klum and her team of judges make their selections and guide the participants toward their dreams!