Disney has announced that it has signed a brand new deal with Spyglass Media Group to bring back the popular reality competition series, "Project Runway".
This new series will see producers Dan Cutforth and Jane Lipsitz from Alfred Street Industries refresh the popular show. A host, judges and premiere date will be announced at a later time.
The series will return for season 21 in 2025, moving from its former home to Bravo and the new ten-episode series will premiere on Freeform, with new episodes airing weekly on the network and will be available to stream shortly after on Disney+ and Hulu. No international Disney+ release details have been confirmed.
When "Project Runway" debuted in 2004, the series broke new ground and helped revolutionize the reality competition genre. Since then, "Project Runway" has aired in more than 125 countries.
The long-standing series has had a profound effect on the fashion industry, launching the careers of prolific designers, including Christian Siriano, Austin Scarlett, Leanne Marshall, Irina Shabayeva, Michael Costello and Bishme Cromartie, among many others.
Simran Sethi, president, scripted programming, Hulu Originals and ABC Entertainment said in a statement:
"'Project Runway' is an iconic television juggernaut that perfectly complements the pop-culture spirit at Freeform. We are excited to welcome the original series to the Disney family and reignite the fanbase alongside Spyglass and Alfred Street, giving viewers the chance to once again share in discovering the next generation of exceptionally talented fashion designers."
Gary Barber, chairman and CEO of Spyglass, added:
"For 20 seasons, 'Project Runway' has captured viewers' attention and cultivated a loyal following. The series has proven to be a valuable and enduring brand worldwide, and we could not be more excited to broaden the show's breadth of viewership within the Freeform, Hulu and Disney+ ecosystem."
Dan Cutforth also added:
"It is exciting and inspiring to have the opportunity to guide the evolution of 'Project Runway' for a new generation. The challenge to stay relevant while the world is changing at lightning speed makes us eager to not only honor our die-hard 'Project Runway' fans but also to introduce fresh and innovative ideas," added Lipsitz.
"Project Runway" is produced by Spyglass Media Group and Alfred Street Industries. Gary Barber serves as executive producer for Spyglass. Dan Cutforth, Jane Lipsitz, Dan Volpe, and Nan Strait serve as executive producers for Alfred Street Industries.
Roger's Take: It's interesting to see Disney looking for more reality-based television, and the fact that this is being released on Disney+ as well as on Hulu and Freeform is another step forward in bringing all of their platforms together.
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