The 72-year-old Project Runway mentor shared the candid details during a recent appearance on Chelsea Handler’s podcast. Gunn explained that when he was 29, he ended a nine-year relationship that left a lasting emotional impact — one that ultimately shaped the rest of his personal life.
At the time, Gunn had been devoted to his partner, describing him as the only person he had ever been intimate with. The relationship came to an abrupt end one evening while they were watching MASH*. His partner told him he no longer had patience for him and asked him to leave. Although Gunn had his own apartment, he had been living with him for years, making the split even more devastating.
The heartbreak intensified when his ex admitted to being repeatedly unfaithful. The revelation was especially frightening given that it was the early 1980s, during the emergence of the AIDS crisis. Gunn said he feared for his life, believing he may have been exposed to HIV. For the next decade, he underwent testing every six months, ultimately remaining HIV-negative — something he describes as a tremendous relief.
Still, the emotional scars lingered. Gunn shared that whenever he considered pursuing another serious relationship, memories of that betrayal would resurface so strongly that any desire for intimacy disappeared. Over time, he adjusted to living alone and embracing celibacy, eventually finding peace with that decision.
Professionally, Gunn rose to fame in 2004 as the beloved mentor on Project Runway, hosted by Heidi Klum. Known for his calm guidance and signature phrase “Make it work,” he became a fan favorite over 19 seasons and earned an Emmy along the way.
Gunn also revealed that he was not invited back for the show’s latest season, calling the decision initially “devastating,” but expressing gratitude for his long run and lasting legacy in the fashion world.
