Tyra Banks Joins 'Project Runway' Judges Panel, Sparking ANTM Legacy Discussions
June 18, 2026
Project Runway Season 22 will premiere July 9 on Freeform, with streaming on Disney+ and Hulu, featuring a judging panel headlined by Heidi Klum and Nina Garcia, joined by Law Roach, and Tyra Banks entering as a new recurring judge alongside mentor Christian Siriano.
Cameos this season include Charity Lawson, Sarah Jane Nader, Ekin-Su, and Veejay Floresca appearing as models in an episode, while previous season’s winner Veejay Floresca returns to the runway as a model.
The season will incorporate Dancing with the Stars cast members as on-air participants, expanding the crossover appeal.
In basketball news, the Lakers’ pursuit of Williams and other centers could raise his market value, with Portland urged to keep Williams to preserve defensive identity, though durability remains a concern.
There is no information yet on any ANTM reboot, with no updates available at the time of publication.
Banks notes her ANTM involvement aims to bring candid perspectives on the show's legacy, including criticisms and decisions she would approach differently today.
Official social handles and media kit links are provided, with press site access requiring a login.
The piece situates the series within Disney’s ecosystem, noting Freeform as the network and broader Disney/ABC connections.
The analysis critiques Rob Pelinka’s management of the Lakers toward a championship trajectory, highlighting misalignment with assets and targets.
Netflix’s response to ANTM remains unpublicized, with ongoing discussion about the show's legacy and industry backlash.
Public reaction on X is mixed, with excitement about Banks’s return contrasted by skepticism or suggestions for alternate formats.
Promotional material includes a trailer and tweets from LAW ROACH and ABC announcing casting and premiere details.
Summary based on 32 sources
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Sources

ABC7 Los Angeles • Jun 18, 2026
'Project Runway' Season 22 trailer reveals Tyra Banks' return and a record 22 designers
abc7news.com • Jun 18, 2026
'Project Runway' Season 22 trailer unveils record 22 designers, Tyra Banks' return and star judges
