The fashion icon re-joins the hit series as the competition expands with record designers and celebrity guest appearances
Tyra Banks is officially returning to the spotlight on Project Runway as the fashion competition prepares for its highly anticipated 22nd season.
Hulu confirmed her comeback in the newly released trailer, which features Banks alongside returning judges Heidi Klum, Law Roach, and Nina Garcia. Season 4 winner Christian Siriano also returns as mentor, strengthening the show’s core creative team.
Best known for hosting America’s Next Top Model, Banks previously appeared as a guest judge in Season 21. Her new role marks a full return to the franchise after several years away from the main judging panel.
Season 22 is set to premiere on July 9, launching first on Freeform before streaming on Hulu and Disney+. New episodes will release weekly, continuing the show’s modern rollout strategy.
This season also makes history with 22 competing designers, the largest cast ever featured on Project Runway. The expanded lineup promises heightened competition and more diverse creative talent.
The judging table will also welcome a wide range of celebrity guests. Confirmed appearances include Ciara, Ice Spice, Iman, Kiernan Shipka, Niecy Nash, Nina Dobrev, as well as designers Willy Chavarria and Sergio Hudson. Influencers Nara Smith and Paige DeSorbo are also set to appear.
The season further expands its crossover appeal with guest appearances from Dancing with the Stars professionals and reality personalities from Hulu franchises including The Bachelorette and Vanderpump Villa.
Banks’ return comes amid ongoing legal attention, as she recently filed a complaint regarding a documentary about her America’s Next Top Model legacy, alleging selective editing misrepresented her comments.
With a larger cast, major guest stars, and returning icons, Season 22 is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious chapters in Project Runway history.