𝗕𝗘𝗔𝗖𝗛𝗙𝗥𝗢𝗡𝗧 𝗥𝗨𝗡𝗪𝗔𝗬: Heidi Klum Films “Germany’s Next Topmodel” at Venice Beach at Sunset

VENICE BEACH, CA — Tuesday, December 9, 2025 — A full-scale television production unfolded along the Venice shoreline Tuesday evening as host and executive producer Heidi Klum returned to Southern California to film an episode of Germany’s Next Topmodel during golden hour near the water. A temporary beach set was constructed just north of the Venice Pier, complete with lighting towers, camera cranes, production tents, and a raised judging platform set against the Pacific Ocean backdrop. As the sun dipped toward the horizon, contestants—dressed in coordinated beachwear and runway attire—were staged for a sunset photoshoot and elimination sequence. Pedestrians, cyclists, and sunset watchers gathered along the perimeter to observe the behind-the-scenes production. Many stopped to film and photograph the scene as contestants lined up before Klum and the judging panel, while camera crews captured multiple angles of the beachfront runway setup. The episode appeared to feature a high-pressure seaside challenge, consistent with the show’s format of combining fashion performance with dramatic visual environments. Overhead boom lifts and studio lighting were used to maintain consistent exposure as daylight faded, while large reflector panels framed the judging area. Germany’s Next Topmodel, now in its twentieth season, follows aspiring models through a series of elimination challenges testing runway skill, photo performance, brand presence, and adaptability. The Venice Beach shoot marks one of several international locations featured during the current season’s production cycle. Filming concluded shortly after sunset as crews began dismantling equipment and beach traffic returned to normal. No road closures were reported, and public access to the surrounding beach remained open throughout the production. Santa Monica Closeup documents public events of local significance and on-scene activity across the Westside.