Alicia Keys, Tyler Perry to Mentor on AMERICA'S NEXT TOP MODEL

By: Caryn Robbins Aug. 06, 2012

TVGuide reports that Alicia Keys and Tyler Perry are set to appear as mentors in the upcoming 19th cycle of The CW's AMERICA'S NEXT TOP MODEL. The new season will feature the long-running competition's first-ever 'College Edition.'

Says the show's Tyra Banks, "Tyler Perry comes on and gives the contestants an acting challenge. The winner of that acting challenge is actually going to be in a Tyler Perry movie." Grammy-winning singer Keys will also be featured in a mentoring role for one of this year's contestants.

In addition, it was announced that celebrity photographer Shenae Grimes will also be making an appearance. "Shenae Grimes from 90210 is the photographer on one of the photo shoots and actually took some really beautiful pictures," reveals Banks.

Other changes include a new format featuring new judges, a social media correspondent and an innovative method of delivering 'Tyra Mail,' a long-running staple of the competition.

AMERICA'S NEXT TOP MODEL: COLLEGE EDITION will premiere on Friday, August 24 on The CW.

Photo Credit: Walter McBride / Retna Ltd.