Tim Gunn Reveals 43-Year Celibacy

Project Runway alum opens up about his personal life choices on podcast

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Tim Gunn, the former host of the reality TV show Project Runway, recently revealed in an interview that he has been celibate for the past 43 years. Gunn explained that his celibacy stems from the end of a serious 9-year relationship in the 1970s and 80s, when his then-partner abruptly ended the relationship while they were watching an episode of the TV show M*A*S*H.

Why it matters

Gunn's revelation about his long-term celibacy is a rare personal disclosure from the usually private television personality. His story provides a glimpse into the private life of a public figure and highlights how individuals can make unconventional lifestyle choices, even in the face of societal pressures around relationships and sexuality.

The details

In the interview on the Dear Chelsea podcast, Gunn explained that his celibacy began after a 'very serious nine-year relationship in Washington, D.C.' ended abruptly in the early 1980s. Gunn said his then-partner told him 'I have no patience for you any longer. I want you to leave,' while they were watching an episode of the TV show M*A*S*H together.

  • Gunn's 9-year relationship ended in the early 1980s.
  • Gunn has been celibate for the past 43 years.

The players

Tim Gunn

A former host of the reality TV show Project Runway who recently revealed he has been celibate for 43 years.

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What they’re saying

“I loved this person deeply and would have done anything for him, and I still remember the night that it all ended. We were in bed watching M*A*S*H. It was the first run, and he said to me, 'I have no patience for you any longer. I want you to leave,'”

— Tim Gunn (Dear Chelsea podcast)

The takeaway

Gunn's story highlights how individuals can make unconventional life choices, even in the face of societal pressures around relationships and sexuality. His revelation provides a rare personal glimpse into the private life of a public figure.