"Project Runway" is one of the most drama-filled reality shows on TV, and it's not hard to see why. Intense pressure and clashing personalities often reach a boiling point, and the stress causes some contestants to leave the show. And then, of course, there are the contestants who are forced to leave by order of the producers. Here are some examples of "Project Runway" contestants who left the show, either by their own choice, or because of some extenuating circumstances.
Dropping like flies
Season 10 has only been on the air for a month, and already contestants are dropping like flies. A cliffhanger in the season's third episode revealed that Andrea had mysteriously disappeared after a bad day on the runway. The fourth episode explained that she withdrew from the competition. Sadly, quirky Japanese designer Kooan also decided to withdraw, depriving fans of his kooky designs for the rest of the season.
Cecilia, you're breaking our heart
Charming designer Cecilia was a breath of fresh air in a drama-heavy season. But this Season 9 competitor opted to withdraw from the competition, giving Josh C. a chance at redemption. Cecilia made her exit during the New Balance challenge in Episode 5, right before the footrace segment.
A reasonable withdrawal
Season 7's Maya was a fashion wunkerkind. Her work was generally well-received by the judges and her competitors, though occasionally seen as simple or derivative. But during the episode where the designers needed to make a gown for Heidi, Maya announced that she wanted to leave the show. Her reason was actually quite good: While she could handle the pressure, she still felt that she was too young to make it all the way to the end. What she really wanted was to have some time to develop her unique point of view. After she withdrew, Anthony was brought back, and won the challenge.
Poor Jack
Jack had a lot of promise, but this Season 4 designer only made it to the fifth episode. Sadly, he contracted a MRSA infection, and needed to leave the show for medical treatment. Chris, the designer eliminated before he left, was allowed to return.
The most notorious contestant
Every "Project Runway" fan knows the tale of Season 3's Keith Michael Rizza. Years later, fans still remember Keith Michael as the show's first disqualified contestant. After producers learned that Keith Michael had been using pattern books and leaving the production without permission, they were forced to evict him from the show. His fellow contestants (and Tim Gunn) were astonished at the turn of events.
