I first joined Germany’s Next Top Model in 2020 as a guest coach for season 15. My task was to coach the models during a dance challenge, where they had to learn a routine to an Ava Max song. The highlight came when Ava herself made a surprise live appearance, performing the song while the models danced and walked the runway in haute couture. It was a thrilling experience that left everyone buzzing.
In 2022, I was invited back for the taping of the new season, which aired in 2023. One of the most memorable episodes I worked on that season involved turning the models into "Divas," channeling their inner Marilyn Monroe. Alongside an amazing creative team that included LA-based director Lance Drake and talented DP Matthew Tompkins, I choreographed a dazzling performance where the models had to lip-sync to Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend. But the surprises didn’t end there—Heidi invited the famous boy band "The Elevator Boys" for a second challenge, where the models had to improvise to Material Girl. I had spent countless hours rehearsing with the boys to ensure they seamlessly interacted with the models, creating a jaw-dropping musical number. It was a milestone episode for me, as I was fully integrated into the creative brainstorming, helping bring the whole vision to life.
Fast forward to 2024, and I was brought back for the most recent season of Germany’s Next Top Model—this time with even greater involvement. This year marked a historic first for the show with the addition of male models, adding a new level of complexity and excitement. From runway coaching to overseeing production sets, this season pushed the boundaries of creativity.
For episode 8, I had the pleasure of coaching the models for a runway show that took place at the legendary Rose Bowl Stadium in Los Angeles. My role didn’t just involve walking; I was also tasked with choreographing a synchronized dance for the cheerleaders, who acted as a “distraction” during the models’ catwalk. On top of that, I coordinated football players to add to the spectacle. The models were dressed in Christian Cohen couture and had to deliver their best walks amid all the dynamic action around them—it was an electric moment that tested their ability to stay focused and fierce.
I was also brought back for another unforgettable episode set in a night market in Little Tokyo. The set was a maze of vibrant stalls and immersive environments, where the models had to pose for iconic photographer Yu Tsai. To elevate the challenge, I brought in some of the best dancers in Los Angeles and choreographed a TikTok-style dance, with the dancers serving as both a distraction and an invitation for the models to interact with them creatively. It brought a modern twist and added a fresh layer of spontaneity to the shoot.
One of the most exciting moments came in episode 12, the "fashion week" challenge. I had the privilege of working with three renowned designers: LA-based Ashton Michael, Paris-based Kevin Germanier, and Berlin-based Esther Perbandt. Each designer brought their own distinct vision to the show, and I was responsible for bringing their creative concepts to life on the runway. I worked closely with the designers, rehearsing and coaching the models to ensure they perfectly embodied the essence of each collection in a true-to-life fashion week setting.
Every time I return to Germany’s Next Top Model, I am reminded of how much I love being part of such a creative and talented team. This season, with its new additions and ambitious challenges, was a special one. The opportunity to mentor the models—both female and male—while collaborating with some of the industry’s most exciting designers and creatives is something I deeply cherish. I look forward to continuing this incredible journey with GNTM in the future.