'America's Next Top Model' Cycle 16: Bees, Balls, and Rachel Zoe. (Bonus: Season Teaser Video)
by Elizabeth Sexton
Things are about to get fierce and possibly go bananas when “America’s Next Top Model” returns to the runway with 14 new would-be models and guest judges like Rachel Zoe. Viewers will enter the world of high fashion when Cycle 16 premieres on February 23.
Fourteen contestants will be competing for the career-launching title of “America’s Next Top Model."
Tyra Banks will lead the panel of judges that include fashion editor André Leon Talley and photographer Nigel Barker. Miss J Alexander and Jay Manueal will continue to grace the screen, as well. Miss J will serve as the runway trainer and Jay Manuel will be the photo shoot creative director.
The models range from ages 18 – 26, and have listed on their ANTM bios fears about the show like, “That I might come across as a ditz” and “Having to do any sort of modeling with a shark!”
Regardless of doubts they better be able to jump in. The first pictures released actually show the contestants standing in a large puddle, which could be foreshadowing of some "Fear Factor"-worthy challenges to come.
The trailer (below) shows the women modeling with bees on their earrings and running across water inside giant balls. Not to mention, the show is known for its tough love, which starts with makeover week and includes serious tress transformations and plenty of tears.
In cycle 5, one model even quit the show due to her makeover. Cassandra said the blonde crop she was given changed who she was.
Watch the teaser for "America's Next Top Model" Cycle 16, here: