Heidi Klum embarks on her 20th season of ‘Germany’s Next Topmodel’ on February 13, 2025, celebrating the show’s rich history filled with dramatic moments. Past seasons featured notable events, including a bomb threat during the 2015 finale and Theresia Fischer’s surprise wedding in 2019. Contestants have also faced challenges, with several voluntarily withdrawing due to personal struggles. Despite criticism, Klum emphasizes the show’s commitment to authenticity and celebrates its diverse cast.
Heidi Klum’s Quest for Germany’s Next Top Model
This year marks a significant milestone as Heidi Klum, at 51 years old, embarks on her 20th journey to find Germany’s next top model through the renowned show ‘Germany’s Next Topmodel’. The anniversary season is set to premiere on February 13, 2025. What exciting moments can viewers expect? The history of ‘GNTM’ is filled with unforgettable events and surprises.
Notable Moments from Past Seasons
One of the most dramatic occurrences took place during the finale in 2015. Heidi Klum planned to crown the tenth winner that May 14, but an anonymous bomb threat disrupted the live show at the Mannheim SAP Arena. As a result, the venue was evacuated, and the finale had to be canceled. Fortunately, no bomb was found, and the event was rescheduled for a later date. This time, the finale featured Vanessa Fuchs, who claimed the title, but it was filmed in a smaller setting instead of being broadcast live.
Another memorable moment unfolded during the 2019 season when contestant Theresia Fischer, who finished in eleventh place, made headlines with a surprise wedding. During the finale, she exchanged vows with her partner Thomas Behrend, with Klum officiating the ceremony in front of millions. Although they later had a civil ceremony, Fischer reflected on this public display in 2023, expressing regret about the decision, stating it wasn’t the right path for her at the time. Today, she is in a new relationship with dentist Stefan Kleiser.
Throughout the years, ‘GNTM’ has seen several contestants voluntarily exit the competition, particularly during the grand finale. In 2019, Vanessa Tamkan, a strong contender, unexpectedly announced her departure via video message, citing personal reasons. Just months later, she shared that she couldn’t relate to the show anymore. The following year, Lijana Kaggwa publicly withdrew during the finale, revealing the bullying she faced during the competition. Similarly, in 2021, Ashley Amegan chose to skip the finale for personal reasons, prompting the broadcaster to express their support.
‘GNTM’ has faced its share of criticism over the years, with many voices calling for change in the casting show. Klum addressed this backlash during the 2022 finale, emphasizing the positive feedback they received for their diverse cast while asserting that the show would continue its current approach. In the 18th season’s premiere, she reaffirmed that the models’ actions and decisions are their own, clarifying that the show aims to represent individuals authentically rather than create fabricated personas.