While millions know him best for his signature phrase “Make it work” as the beloved mentor on Project Runway and Making the Cut, Gunn’s unflappable elegance, razor-sharp wit, and impeccable tailoring have also made him one of Hollywood’s absolute favorite secret weapons for memorable guest appearances.
Whenever a show needed instant fashion credibility—or a delightfully dry comic foil—Tim Gunn answered the call. To celebrate his milestone 73rd birthday, here is a look back at his best TV and movie cameos.
1. How I Met Your Mother (Barney’s Personal Tailor)
Of all his guest roles, Gunn’s multi-episode arc on How I Met Your Mother remains a fan favorite. Playing an exaggerated version of himself who doubles as Barney Stinson’s legendary suit tailor, Gunn fits seamlessly into the show’s theatrical universe.
His standout moment comes in the 100th episode, “Girls Versus Suits,” where he treats suit fittings with the solemn gravity of open-heart surgery. Whether helping Barney navigate a sartorial existential crisis or offering relationship advice in terms of fabric weight, Gunn delivered his lines with pure, deadpan perfection.
2. Gossip Girl (Judging Jenny Humphrey)
In the fourth season episode “Easy J,” Gunn brought his real-life Parsons credentials to the drama-filled steps of Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Appearing as himself, he conducts a high-stakes interview with Jenny Humphrey to review her clothing portfolio.
In typical Tim Gunn fashion, he delivers honest, constructive critique without getting dragged into the chaotic teen scheming unfolding around him, providing a brief oasis of genuine professionalism in the world of Gossip Girl.
3. Ugly Betty (Fashion TV Anchor)
Long before cameo culture was everywhere, Ugly Betty recognized Gunn’s on-screen charisma during the peak of Project Runway fever. Appearing in two episodes as a news anchor for the fictional Fashion TV, Gunn offered commentary on the cutthroat corporate battles inside MODE magazine.
His understated, dignified delivery served as the ultimate hilarious contrast to the show’s colorful, campy villainy.
4. The Smurfs & Sex and the City 2 (The Big Screen Cameos)
Gunn’s charm wasn’t limited to the small screen. In 2010’s Sex and the City 2, he made a brief, fitting appearance playing himself alongside red-carpet royalty.
He followed that up in 2011’s live-action/CGI hybrid The Smurfs, stepping into a rare narrative character role as Henri, a long-suffering executive assistant working for a high-powered cosmetics boss played by Sofía Vergara. Gunn brought his trademark poised composure to the chaotic slapstick comedy.
5. BoJack Horseman (A Tailored Animated Cameo)
Gunn’s instantly recognizable voice has graced dozens of animated projects, but his guest spot in BoJack Horseman (Season 4’s “Hooray! Todd Episode!”) stands out as a brilliant satire. Voicing an animated version of himself, Gunn provides absurdly detailed fashion commentary and offers advice to Todd Chavez, proving he’s more than happy to poke fun at his own polished public persona.
From real-world fashion runways to sitcom living rooms, Tim Gunn has spent decades proving that true style never goes out of fashion. Here’s to 73 years of grace, wisdom, and making it work!
