Germany’s Next Topmodel has captivated audiences since its debut, blending high-stakes competition with the glamour of the fashion world. Hosted by supermodel Heidi Klum, the show is a German adaptation of the iconic America’s Next Top Model created by Tyra Banks. Premiering on ProSieben in 2006, it has become one of the longest-running reality series in the country, boasting 20 seasons by 2025. With its mix of drama, makeovers, and runway challenges, germany’s next topmodel continues to draw millions of viewers, while also sparking debates about body image, mental health, and the ethics of reality television.
The show’s premise is simple yet riveting: aspiring models compete for a chance to launch their careers, vying for contracts, cash prizes, and the coveted title. Over the years, it has evolved from a straightforward modeling contest into a multimedia spectacle, incorporating social media buzz and international trips. Despite criticisms, its enduring popularity underscores its impact on pop culture, influencing trends and launching careers for winners like Lena Gercke and Stefanie Giesinger.
germany’s next topmodel
germany’s next topmodel traces its roots back to January 25, 2006, when the first episode aired, introducing 12 contestants to the nation. Heidi Klum, already a global fashion icon, stepped in as host, lead judge, and executive producer, bringing her industry expertise and charismatic presence to the forefront. The format draws heavily from its American counterpart but adapts it for German sensibilities, emphasizing runway prowess over lengthy panel critiques. Each season begins with auditions, where hundreds of hopefuls are whittled down to a core group—ranging from 12 in the early days to a record 51 in Season 20.
The competition unfolds over weekly episodes, typically 60 to 100 minutes long, produced by RedSevenEntertainment. Contestants face photo shoots, challenges, and eliminations decided by Klum and a rotating panel of judges. Makeovers are a staple, often dramatic and emotional, occurring early in the cycle. Unlike the U.S. version, call-out orders don’t strictly reflect performance until the finale, adding an element of unpredictability. International destinations have become a highlight, with trips to places like Los Angeles in recent seasons, though some cycles, like Season 16, stayed domestic due to external factors like the pandemic.
Judges have come and gone, but Klum remains the constant. Early seasons featured permanent panels including Peyman Amin, Armin Morbach, and Boris Entrup. Later, figures like Thomas Hayo, Wolfgang Joop, and Michael Michalsky joined, with Season 14 shifting to mostly guest judges for fresh perspectives. This evolution keeps the show dynamic, incorporating experts from fashion, photography, and entertainment.
Seasons and Winners: A Legacy of Triumphs
Over two decades, germany’s next topmodel has crowned 22 winners across 20 seasons, with recent cycles introducing co-winners to promote inclusivity. The inaugural season in 2006 saw Lena Gercke emerge victorious, kickstarting a trend of blonde winners in early years. Barbara Meier won Season 2 in 2007, followed by Jennifer Hof in 2008 and Sara Nuru in 2009. Season 5, delayed due to Klum’s pregnancy, was claimed by Alisar Ailabouni in 2010.
The 2010s brought more diversity: Jana Beller (2011), Luisa Hartema (2012), Lovelyn Enebechi (2013), Stefanie Giesinger (2014), Vanessa Fuchs (2015), Kim Hnizdo (2016), Céline Bethmann (2017), Toni Dreher-Adenuga (2018), and Simone Kowalski (2019). The 2020s continued with Jacky Wruck (2020), Alex-Mariah Peter (2021)—the first transgender winner—Lou-Anne Gleissenebner (2022), Vivien Blotzki (2023), and dual winners Lea Oude Engberink and Jermaine Kokoú Kothé in 2024.
Season 20 in 2025 marked the show’s anniversary, featuring 51 contestants and co-winners Moritz Rüdiger and Daniela Djokić, who triumphed in a grand finale in Cologne. This season included a trip to Los Angeles, blending nostalgia with modern twists like diverse casting.
Controversies and Criticisms
No discussion of germany’s next topmodel is complete without addressing its controversies. The show has been accused of gaslighting, body shaming, and exploiting contestants’ vulnerabilities. Incidents include hidden injuries, such as a broken arm in Season 10 and scoliosis exploitation in Season 4. Nude photoshoots in later seasons drew ire for their impact on young viewers. Former contestants like Simone Kowalski and Alisar Ailabouni have sued over “gag contracts” with Klum’s affiliated agency, claiming unfair terms.
A 2023 documentary exposed manipulations, isolation, and financial disparities—ProSieben reportedly earned 87 million euros from Season 18, while contestants went unpaid. Judges like Wolfgang Joop and Peyman Amin have publicly distanced themselves, criticizing the shift toward conflict-driven drama. The series has faced scrutiny from youth protection agencies for promoting eating disorders and cyberbullying, with surveys linking it to body image issues among teens. Despite this, ratings persist, though they’ve declined since peak years.
Impact on German Pop Culture
germany’s next topmodel has left an indelible mark on German media, spawning spin-offs like Die Model WG and influencing fashion trends. Winners have gone on to successful careers—Gercke as a TV host, Giesinger as an influencer with millions of followers. However, critics argue it fails to produce true supermodels, instead prioritizing entertainment over industry relevance.
The show has sparked broader conversations about reality TV ethics, with protests from groups like Femen and parodies by comedians. In a digital age, it leverages social media for engagement, amplifying both praise and backlash. As it enters its third decade, germany’s next topmodel remains a polarizing force, balancing aspiration with accountability.
FAQ
What is Germany’s Next Topmodel?
Germany’s Next Topmodel is a reality TV competition hosted by Heidi Klum, where aspiring models compete for a modeling contract and title. It premiered in 2006 and has aired 20 seasons by 2025.
Who hosts the show?
Heidi Klum is the host, lead judge, and executive producer since the beginning.
How many winners have there been?
There have been 22 winners across 20 seasons, including co-winners in Seasons 19 and 20.
What are some controversies surrounding the show?
The show has faced criticism for body shaming, contestant exploitation, and unethical contracts, leading to lawsuits and public outcry.
Where can I watch Germany’s Next Topmodel?
It airs on ProSieben in Germany, with episodes available on streaming platforms like Joyn.
Has the show influenced careers?
Yes, many winners like Stefanie Giesinger have become influencers, models, and TV personalities.