During the Television Critics Association, Klum was asked about her thoughts on the controversy surrounding Union's firing. "I've only had an amazing experience," she said, speaking on Union's reported claims of a toxic work environment. "I can't speak for her. I didn't experience the same thing. To me, everyone treats you with the utmost respect. I've never seen anything that was weird or hurtful."
Klum left AGT along with Spice Girl Mel B when Union and Hough replaced them for season 14. The former model is currently a judge on the spinoff series AGT: Champions.
After her comments received public criticism, the Champions host released a statement to People expanding on her words. "I told the reporter that I had not experienced similar issues while I was a judge on the show — my experience was a positive one. I can only speak of my own truth, and by no means is that meant to negate or question Gabrielle's truth," Klum said. "I am aware that my experience may not be the same as Gabrielle's. What I can tell you is that I am a fierce advocate for all people, no matter their race, age, religion, gender or sexuality. Everyone should be treated equally and with utmost respect."
The host went on to mention that she herself experienced "very hurtful things" during her marriage to singer Seal, saying, "I want nothing more than for a just world and for people to be kinder to one another."
