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Celebrity

31st Jan 2022

Miss USA and TV host Cheslie Kryst passes away aged 30

Sarah McKenna Barry

Her family announced her death yesterday.

Cheslie Kryst, who was crowned Miss USA in 2019, has passed away at the age of 30.

As well as winning the pageant, Cheslie worked as a TV host . Metro reports that her family announced her death in a statement released yesterday.

They said: “In devastation and great sorrow, we share the passing of our beloved Cheslie.

“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 shared a statement on Cheslie’s death, which read: “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.”

In addition to her work in public life, Cheslie was an attorney, and was particularly interested in reforming the US justice system.

Cheslie won the Miss USA pageant in 2019, as she represented North Carolina. That year, she joined Nia Imani Franklin (Miss America), Kaliegh Garris (Miss Teen USA) and Zozibini Tunzi (Miss Universe) as they became the first group of Black women to hold four titles in the same year.

Cheslie spoke about the historic year in pageantry during an appearance on Good Morning America.

She said: “People will comment on our social media and be like, ‘Why are we talking about your race? You guys are just four, amazing women. And I’m like, “Yes, we are four amazing women, but there was a time when we literally could not win!'”