Posted by RODNEY HO/rho@ajc.com on his AJC Radio & TV Talk blog
It's already unusual that Atlanta was represented by three black male designers during this season's "Project Runway All Stars." Anthony Williams, Edmond Newton and Ken Laurence were part of the cast of 16.
Now, amazingly, after 10 challenges and just five contestants left, all three locals have survived.
In fact, the final five features five minority guys. The last woman - Helen Castillo - was eliminated last week.
"It was a monumental and historic moment," said Newton, who finished runner up season 14 on "Project Runway" in 2015, in an interview.
Credit: Rodney Ho
Credit: Rodney Ho
This year, they had eight "vets" who had competed on "All Stars" before and eight "rookies" who had been on the original "Project Runway" but never been on "All Stars."
Newton, who is working on bridal, bridesmaid and prom gowns as well as another collection, is the final "rookie" left in the mix. During "Project Runway All Stars," he has struggled at times with consistency from one challenge to the next but finally won his first challenge during this past Thursday's music-themed episode. Newton tackled rock and the judges loved the outfit. He also won a trip to Mexico.
"I took a lot of knocks and blows" during the competition, Newton said. "I was steadfast and came back and redeemed myself with this win and hearing the feedback, the judges know who I am and understand my aesthetic."
Credit: Rodney Ho
Credit: Rodney Ho
Williams, who competed season 7 and on season 1 "All Stars," won the second challenge focused on a "post-apocalyptic runway."
Credit: Rodney Ho
Credit: Rodney Ho
Williams also took home the prize for the ninth challenge, which featured Zac Posen and a red carpet look focused on a signature technique. His choice: sculpting.
Credit: Rodney Ho
Credit: Rodney Ho
Laurence took home the third challenge with Fabio (another top 5 finalist) by complementing each other with a "pairing" inspired by a food item (lamb chop) and a wine (Syrah).
Credit: Rodney Ho
Credit: Rodney Ho
There are four more episodes. And there are no shortage of prizes for the winner: a fashion spread and contributing editor position with Marie Claire magazine, a trip to London, a Rodial makeup and skincare supply for their fashion show “and beyond,” accessories from Intermix for their next fashion show, a complete sewing and crafting studio from Brother, and $100,000.
Credit: Rodney Ho
Credit: Rodney Ho
ON TV
"Project Runway All Stars," 9 p.m. Thursdays, Lifetime
