Project Runway season 21 premiered with a shocking elimination as returning designer Caycee Black was sent home in the first episode. This marks the second time she was eliminated early in the competition, having faced the same fate in season 19. The judges criticized her Disney-inspired design as “lackluster” and “a complete mess,” leading to her emotional exit.
Caycee Black’s Second Early Exit From Project Runway
The season 21 premiere, which aired on July 31, 2025, featured a Disney-themed challenge where designers were split into two teams—House of Princesses and House of Villains. Caycee, part of the House of Princesses, created a strapless pink gown with uneven draping. However, judges Heidi Klum, Nina Garcia, and Law Roach were unimpressed.
“It’s very lackluster in terms of shape and everything. I want to see more design. It’s not inspiring,” said Heidi Klum.
“I just think it was a miss because you had everything to make something so beautiful and so fairytale-like, and you kind of missed it,” added Law Roach.
Caycee, visibly upset, expressed her shock in a confessional:
“I’m just in shock a bit right now. I actually really loved my dress. Being in this position again, I never thought I’d be in the bottom three at this stage in the competition again. After being eliminated on episode one of another season, it just feels like a bad joke.”
Nina Garcia called her dress “a complete mess,” sealing her fate.
Christian Siriano’s Support Before Caycee’s Exit
Before leaving, mentor Christian Siriano offered words of encouragement:
“You’re so talented. That’s why you’re here. That’s why you came back. Hold that strong.”
Caycee later posted on Instagram, reflecting on her experience:
“It was a challenging experience, both personally and creatively, but ultimately, it allowed me to grow as an artist and reinforce my vision of transforming art into fashion. And that’s what truly matters to me.”
Other Highlights From the Premiere
The House of Villains won the first challenge, with drag artist Ethan Mundt (Utica Queen) taking the top spot for his sculpted black gown with metallic accents. The second episode, “Feel the Burn,” focused on athleisure wear, with Jesus Estrada winning for his versatile activewear design.
Meanwhile, Antonio Estrada narrowly avoided elimination after clashing with the judges over his design. He blamed mentor Christian Siriano for his struggles, leading to a tense exchange with Heidi Klum and Law Roach.
What’s Next on Project Runway Season 21?
With Caycee’s exit, 11 designers remain:
- Alex Foxworth
- Angelo Rosa
- Antonio Estrada
- Belania Daley
- Ethan Mundt (Utica Queen)
- Jesus Estrada
- Joan Madison
- Joseph McRae
- Madeline Malenfant
- Veejay Floresca
- Yuchen Han
The next episode, “Boring to Brilliant,” airs on August 7, 2025, on Freeform, with streaming available on Hulu and Disney+.
Credits: Vulture
