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Manila Bulletin devider Entertainment devider Movies and TV devider Former Miss Universe R'Bonney Gabriel exits 'Project Runway' after just two episodes

Former Miss Universe R'Bonney Gabriel exits 'Project Runway' after just two episodes

Published Jul 18, 2026 11:26 am

Winning the Miss Universe crown did not guarantee success on the fashion runway.

Former Miss Universe 2022 R'Bonney Gabriel has been eliminated from "Project Runway" Season 22, ending her bid to prove herself as a designer after just two episodes of the competition.

The Filipino-American beauty queen, who represented the United States when she won Miss Universe in 2022, was among the contestants sent home after the show's first design challenge.

Gabriel presented a recycled denim ensemble with a statement hood, a look that reflected her long-standing commitment to sustainable fashion. But the design failed to impress the judges.

Supermodel Tyra Banks said the outfit was wearable but lacked the creativity needed to stand out in the competition.

"I think so many people would look at that and say, 'That's good.' But what we're looking for is great. What we're looking for is breaking out of something safe," she said.

Host and head judge Heidi Klum was more direct, calling the design "too boring" for a fashion competition.

Gabriel had already found herself in danger during the season premiere, making the second challenge a crucial one. Unfortunately, it marked the end of her journey.

After her elimination, the 32-year-old designer struggled to hold back her emotions.

"I feel so disappointed in myself. I'm extremely embarrassed. I wish the outcome was different. I feel wholeheartedly that I didn't bring the right garments," she said.

Despite the setback, Gabriel said she refuses to let one competition define her career.

"This cannot define me as a designer. That doesn't mean that I'm not talented. I am proud to represent the Philippines. I just want my design work to be my ultimate shining star now," she said.

Although her run ended earlier than many expected, fans praised Gabriel for taking on the challenge and staying true to her advocacy for sustainable fashion.

Related Tags

R\'Bonney Gabriel Project Runway Project Runway Season 22 Miss Universe 2022 R\'Bonney Gabriel eliminated Tyra Banks Heidi Klum sustainable fashion Filipino-American fashion designer reality TV
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