Sunday evening news broke of the tragic passing of Extra host and attorney Cheslie Kryst. Born Cheslie Corrinne Kryst in Jackson, Mich., she was a growing influence in entertainment and beauty news and commentary. The 2019 Miss USA also finished in the top 10 in the Miss Universe competition that year.

According to accounts, Kryst was identified as the woman who jumped from a Midtown apartment building in New York City Sunday morning. Police sources told the Daily News that Kryst jumped from the 29th floor of her building. The outlet noted she reportedly left a note and posted on her Instagram account a picture of herself with the caption that reads, “May this day bring you rest and peace.”

With barely anytime to process the information, Kryst’s family released a statement describing her as “a great light was one that inspired others around the world with her beauty and strength.” 

“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,” read the statement. “But most importantly, as a daughter, sister, friend, mentor and colleague – we know her impact will live on.” 

She just appeared on SiriusXM The Pulse discussing all things pop culture.

Yahoo it’s Friday! That means we’ve got Cheslie Kryst coming up to talk about the Pop Culture happenings of the week! That’s at 6:30 Ep pic.twitter.com/MRSXyk50wc

— SiriusXM The Pulse (@SXMThePulse) January 28, 2022

Kryst received her bachelor’s degree from the University of South Carolina and her juris doctor and master’s of business administration from Wake Forest University in North Carolina. 

Kryst made history in 2019 alongside four other Black women beauty pageant titleholders. It marked the first year that Black women held all five major titles. Miss Teen USA Kaliegh Garris, Miss America Nia Franklin, Miss USA Cheslie Kryst, Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi, and Miss World Toni-Ann Singh 

Kryst was also a host for “Extra.” The show expressed condolences to her friends and loved ones in a statement.

“Our hearts are broken,” read the statement. “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 Dec. 2021, Kryst was a correspondent at the 70th Miss Universe competition. 

Backstage with @CheslieKryst #missuniverse

The 70th MISS UNIVERSE Competition is airing LIVE around the world from Eilat, Israel on @foxtv pic.twitter.com/ZuXuNKyT5t

— Miss Universe (@MissUniverse) December 13, 2021

Losing a loved one can be tough under the most ordinary of circumstances, but suicide can often complicate people’s grief. In Nov. 2021, NBC reported that a CDC report found suicide rates had increased for young people aged 25-34. Experts said it was difficult to pinpoint a specific reason for the increase, given suicide is often a “complex event.” 

If you or a loved one are struggling with harmful thoughts or emotional distress, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255). You can also chat online.

SEE ALSO:  

Remembering Fashion Icon André Leon Talley’s Legacy On Race, In His Own Words

‘A Real One’: Legal Analyst Midwin Charles Passes Away At 47 

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