Miss USA 2019 Cheslie Kryst died on Sunday, January 29 at the age of 30, her family announced.
“In devastation and great sorrow, we share the passing of our beloved Cheslie,” her family said in a statement issued to Extra TV. Her great light was one that inspired others around the world with her beauty and strength. She cared, she loved, she laughed and she shined. Cheslie embodied love and served others, whether through her work as an attorney fighting for social justice, as Miss USA, and as a host on EXTRA. But most importantly, as a daughter, sister, friend, mentor, and colleague – we know her impact will live on.”
Extra also issued a short statement over Cheslie’s passing.
“Our hearts are broken. Cheslie was not just a vital part of our show, she was a beloved part of our ‘Extra’ family and touched the entire staff. Our deepest condolences to all her family and friends.”
The Miss Universe Organization also posted a short tribute to Cheslie, who in December took part as a member of the preliminary selection committee and did hosting duties at the 70th Miss Universe edition.
“The Miss Universe and Miss USA Organizations are devastated to learn about the loss of Miss USA 2019 Cheslie Kryst. She was one of the brightest, warmest, and most kind people we have ever had the privilege of knowing, and she lit up every room she entered. Our entire community mourns her loss, and our thoughts and prayers are with her family during this difficult time.”
“If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or are experiencing a mental health crisis, please seek help by calling the National Suicide Prevention hotline at 1 800-273-8255 or go to SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.”
Several of her Miss Universe 2019 batchmates including Miss Universe Philippines 2019 Gazini Ganados took to social media to remember Cheslie.
“Woke up to the saddest news! I can’t believe I’ll never see you again @chesliekryst. You will be missed and the light you shone so bright. Heaven has gained another angel. Gone too soon!”
Aside from her stint as Miss USA, Cheslie was also a lawyer and ran a blog called White Collar Glam. Following her Miss USA stint, she served as a correspondent for Extra, where she interviewed several celebrities until her passing.
Cheslie’s win as Miss USA in 2019 was part of a historic moment for Black women when she, along with Miss Universe 2019 Zozi Tunzi, Miss Teen USA 2019 Kaliegh Harris, and Miss America 2019 Nia Imani Franklin held all four important titles that year.
Our prayers to Cheslie’s family. She will be missed.
If you know anyone going through tough times or thinking of taking their life,you may call the Natasha Gouldbourn Foundation for help at (02) 804-HOPE (4673), 0917 558 HOPE (4673), or 2919 (toll-free number for all GLOBE and TM subscribers)or seek help via Mental Health Matters PH through their Instagram.
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