Heidi Klum fights against criticism: GNTM combines diversity and courage!

Heidi Klum fights against criticism: GNTM combines diversity and courage!

Heidi Klum has been the focus of criticism for her casting show "Germany’s Next Top Model" (GNTM) for many years. The first allegations of manipulation were loud from the former candidate Lijana Kaggwa in 2022, and since then several ex-participants have joined the allegations. In an interview in February 2023, Klum said that GNTM was an unwritten reality broadcast, without predetermined texts or storylines. She has emphasized her creative say as an executive producer since 2007 by dispensing with prefabricated moderation texts in order to work humorously and spontaneously. In addition, Klum has the physical and mental health of the participants: Always focused on the inside, whereby psychological support is provided during filming, as being made in a report by Gala explained.

On February 13th, GNTM's anniversary relay on ProSieben, and Klum is currently reflecting on her 20-year career as a moderator and fashion maker. Despite the repeated allegations that the show would propagate anorexia, she emphasizes that the health aspect was always in the foreground. She invited consultants to help the models with her diet and refuses to support too thin girls on the show. Klum is aware of the criticism of the fashion industry, especially in terms of diversity. In an interview with Film.at she explained that she was always in commitment to convey a realistic picture, and that the industry with regard to diversity behind the expectations.

The view of the participants

former candidates criticize GNTM for a supposedly wrong representation and the provocation of embarrassing situations. Klum replied that fewer than ten out of 941 candidates made negative statements about the show in 19 years. She announced that she wanted to look for the dialogue with critics, such as Alice Schwarzer,, but Schwarzer declined a public discussion. In her interview, Klum conveys that the format of GNTM can also have stressful psychological effects on participants, an aspect that is confirmed by the reports about traumatic experiences.

reality TV has not only gained popularity in recent years, but also initiated social discussions. According to The knowledge is the observation of conflicts and dramas a central fascination of the audience. These dynamics can have both positive and negative psychological effects by promoting unrealistic ideals or influencing self -esteem. Klum sees the responsibility in creating a platform that is not only entertaining, but also conveys health -promoting and diversity -conscious values.

Overall, Klum remains a controversial figure in the media landscape. Despite the ongoing criticism, she is determined to actively shape the future of "Germany’s Next Top Model", while at the same time recognizing the pressure and the challenges associated with the show. Their commitment to diversity and psychological support in the program could help develop the format and react to the current social requirements.