Death of Cheslie Kryst mourned by Miss Universe org, Filipino beauty queens
Catriona Gray and Miss USA 2019 Cheslie Kryst. Image: Instagram/@catriona_gray, Facebook/Miss Universe
Catriona Gray, Pia Wurtzbach and the Miss Universe organization expressed their grief over the untimely passing of Miss USA 2019 Cheslie Kryst yesterday, Jan. 30. She was 30 years old.
Kryst reportedly jumped from her Manhattan apartment and her body was found on the sidewalk outside the building. Though the cause of death was not indicated in her family’s statement, the New York Police Department confirmed that it was death by suicide, as per The Hollywood Reporter (THR), also yesterday.
“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,” the statement read via THR. “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.”
“Ches… I can’t believe the news. Rest in peace angel. The world will miss your light,” the former Miss Universe said on her Instagram page today, Jan. 31, while showing a photo of herself with Kryst.
Gray then urged the public to reach out to their friends and loved ones who are in need of mental health support.
“Let’s reach out to friends and loved ones. These continue to be isolating times, mental health is so important, let’s not downplay its importance in the lives of every individual,” she said.
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The Miss Universe organization paid its tribute to the beauty queen on their Facebook page, also today.
“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,” they said. “Our entire community mourns her loss, and our thoughts and prayers are with her family during this difficult time.”
Kryst, meanwhile, shared a photo of herself on her Instagram page before her death, with the caption, “May this day bring you rest and peace.”
Former Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach and Binibining Pilipinas Universe 2019 Gazini Ganados also expressed their grief, as well as actress Marian Rivera, who was with Kryst as one of the judges in the recent Miss Universe pageant.
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Image: Instagram/@chesliekryst
“So sorry, Cheslie… you were so kind. Thank you. You’re an inspiration and loved by so many. Rest in peace, Cheslie,” Wurtzbach said.
Image: Instagram/@chesliekryst
“You will be missed my love! You were the sweetest. Heaven has gained another angel! I love you [so much] Rest easy,” Ganados stated.
Image: Instagram/@chesliekryst
Kryst won in the 2019 Miss USA pageant as the representative of North Carolina. She is also a correspondent for the entertainment news program “Extra.” JB
The Philippine Department of Health has said that every case of suicide is a tragedy that can be avoided. Thus, people who feel that they may be suffering from mental health problems and need help may call Hopeline hotlines:
- 804-HOPE (4673)
- 0917-558-HOPE (4673), or
- 2919 (toll-free number for Globe and TM subscribers)
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