Crystle Stewart

Biography

Crystle Stewart is a multifaceted American actress, former pageant queen, and entrepreneur, widely recognized for her accomplishments in beauty pageantry and her role in empowering women. She gained fame after winning Miss Texas USA in 2008, later advancing to secure the title of Miss USA the same year. Representing Texas, she became a prominent figure and advocate, especially after participating in the Miss Universe 2008 pageant, where she placed in the Top 10. Her journey in pageantry was marked by determination, as it took her five attempts to win Miss Texas USA, demonstrating her resilience and commitment.

Stewart was born on September 20, 1981, in Houston, Texas. She attended Elkins High School and graduated from the University of Houston, followed by training at the Barbizon Modeling and Acting School, where she developed her skills in modeling and acting. Over the years, Stewart has actively sought to use her platform to inspire others, particularly young women, focusing on self-confidence, empowerment, and personal development. This dedication led her to launch programs aimed at cultivating self-presentation skills among young women.

In addition to her success in pageantry, Stewart has had a flourishing acting career, particularly in projects led by Tyler Perry. She starred in Perry's TV series For Better or Worse as Leslie Morris, a role she held for six seasons, and later appeared in the drama Too Close to Home. Stewart’s film credits include roles in Perry's movies, such as Good Deeds and Acrimony, showcasing her versatility as an actress.

In recent years, Stewart broke new ground by becoming the first African American president of the Miss USA Organization, overseeing the Miss USA and Miss Teen USA pageants. Her leadership focuses on modernizing pageantry by incorporating elements like mental health awareness, a broader representation of women, and life skills training to prepare contestants for diverse professional opportunities. Stewart’s approach emphasizes that pageants are about inner growth and discipline, viewing them as platforms that promote personal and professional development.

Crystle Stewart is married to Belgian model Max Sebrechts, and they have one child together. Her passion for empowering women has guided her career, from her early days in pageantry to her recent leadership roles. Through her advocacy, she continues to inspire and uplift women across various fields, reinforcing her legacy as a leader and mentor in both the pageant and entertainment industries.