Key Facts
The 22nd season of Project Runway premiered on Freeform with a major twist: designers submitted a look they created at home, with no budget or time limits. Six contestants won immunity, while three were eliminated on the spot. Tyra Banks made her debut as a judge, sparking mixed reactions.
Premiere Twist and Results
Host Heidi Klum announced that the first challenge would showcase each designer's pre-prepared garment. Judges evaluated the looks, selecting six winners: Elizabeth, Jude, Bobby, Bryan, Chloe, and Andriy. Three designers — Jennifer, Andrea, and Lre — were sent home immediately. The remaining losing contestants will face elimination in the next episode.
Returning contestants include Season 21's Joseph McRae and Plane Jane from RuPaul's Drag Race Season 16 and House of Villains Season 3.
Tyra Banks' Judging Debut
Tyra Banks joined the panel amid controversy surrounding her America's Next Top Model legacy. Her performance was described as buttoned-up and media-trained, lacking the wit of Law Roach or the editorial insight of Nina Garcia. She often took a leading role, at one point trying to persuade Roach to be lenient: “I know this is challenging for you, but aren't you curious about what they'll do next week?”
Banks delivered a lengthy critique to designer R'Bonney: “What we're looking for is great. What we're looking for is breaking out of something that is safe … There are 21 designers that are coming and they're coming hard, and we felt you came good, which is not good enough.” Heidi Klum later interjected, “For me, it's boring, too,” clarifying that Banks did not speak for the entire panel.
Notable Exchanges
When Law Roach dismissed Anna's chain-linked soda tab look, Banks joked, “She's gonna whip you with those chains.” Roach retorted, “She ain't gonna touch me with them chains.” Banks also compared winning designer Bryan's garment to a marshmallow, calling it “one that I want to devour.”
Impact and Viewer Reactions
Banks' judging style drew comparisons to her America's Next Top Model persona, with some feeling she overshadowed the panel. Her feedback often carried backhanded compliments, and her recent ventures like Smize Cream raised questions about brand synergy. The premiere set a dramatic tone for the season, with high stakes and a new dynamic at the judges' table.
What Readers Should Know
- Project Runway Season 22 airs Thursdays on Freeform.
- Three more designers will be eliminated in the next episode.
- Tyra Banks' role as judge continues to generate debate among fans.
FAQ
What was the twist in Project Runway Season 22 premiere?
Designers presented a look they created at home with no restrictions. Six winners earned immunity, while three were eliminated immediately.
Who are the new judges on Project Runway Season 22?
Tyra Banks joins the panel alongside Heidi Klum, Law Roach, and Nina Garcia.
Which designers were eliminated in the premiere?
Jennifer, Andrea, and Lre were sent home. Three more eliminations will be revealed next week.