Heidi Klum crowns curvier Vivien 'Germany's Next Top Model' for 2023

A plus-sized contestant took home the title of "Germany's Next Top Model" for the first time in the hit German TV show's 18 seasons, reported Xinhua.

Host and famed supermodel Heidi Klum crowned 23-year-old Vivien Blotzki from the western German city of Koblenz the champion during the during the live finale on Thursday evening on broadcaster ProSieben. She edged out 21-year-old Somajia Ali from Bielefeld and four other finalists.

"I'm proud that people write to me every day who can identify with me," said Vivien after being named the winner. She said she is happy that she can inspire others to feel comfortable in their own bodies and feel comfortable wearing any outfit.

Vivien will now star in an advertising campaign for cosmetics brand Mac and appear on the July cover of the German edition of Harper's Bazaar.

"I think it's fantastic that Vivien was the first curvy model to become Germany's next top model," said magazine editor-in-chief Kerstin Schneider.

The finale of "Germany's Next Top Model" included several catwalk competitions as well as challenges to prove their dancing skills and acting talent. Hollywood star Jennifer Lawrence made a guest appearance as the finalists tried to react a scene from her new film, "No Hard Feelings."

Klum, 50, has drawn praise for her efforts to diversify the long-running hit show, which once focused on very traditional ideas of female beauty. In 2021, Alex Mariah Peter was the first transgender model to win. In 2022 and 2023, the show's competitors were more diverse overall, including older models.

Klum announced at the end of Thursday's programme that applications are now open for the upcoming 19th season.