Project Runway's Anthony Williams on His Second Elimination, Mila's Nerve, and Turning Down His Own Show

Was losing the challenge hard so soon after coming back?

Um, no. Because I never had that certain entitlement. This 'Oh now, I'm back in the competition, I get to stay." Can you hold on one second, actually?

Of course.

[Long pause] Someone just called wishing me birthday wishes, and I didn't know who he is. But he is a man, so he will be getting a call back.

Ah! Happy birthday!

Thank you, thank you! I'm truly enjoying it so far. And I think you were asking me a question. I wasn't above being eliminated. I'm going to be very honest with you. I don't think -- I don't think I looked at the competition the way other people did. I'm glad, now that I've looked back and seen the show, I'm glad I [was eliminated]. Because the great thing about being eliminated at this point is, psychologically, I've had a year to deal with the process. I've had a team of people who love me, who were able to encourage me, and I was surrounded by people going through the same process, and really took care of me and welcomed me with open arms. But I couldn't imagine going to Bryant Park, and getting eliminated and having no one there.

Would you ever do your own reality show and--

No!

Wow. Really?

I know people think I have the personality to be on television, and I'd love to be paid to work for television in some capacity, but for a reality show? I'm not interested in exploiting myself or my family any more. I know people say it's good exposure. I mean, if I did a show, I wouldn't want it to be built around me. I'd do a walk-on and walk-off. It wouldn't be built around me.

Well, it looks like you're actually done with being a contestant on Project Runway now. Do you come away from it with newfound wisdom? Is it an overall good experience?

Sure. I mean, Project Runway has been an amazing experience. They were very good to me. And also, for any aspiring designers: Never second-guess yourself going to Project Runway. Know that you left all your friends and family -- even if you pick up a couple along the way on the show -- you left your true friends and family at home, and they're rooting for you. If I could say anything about my experience, I would say it was definitely worth it, and because of it, I'm stronger and know I am. I identified my strengths.

Other eliminated Runway designers sound off to Movieline:

· Jonathan Peters

· Maya Luz

· Anthony Williams (First Elimination)

· Amy Sarabi

· Ben Chmura

· Jesse Lenoir

· Janeane Marie Ceccanti

· Anna Lynett

· Jesus Estrada

· Ping Wu

· Pamela Ptak

· Christiane King

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