Name: Crystle Stewart
TV Show: “For Better or Worse”
Tell us about your character.
I would have to say that Leslie is the peacemaker in the group; she sees the glass half full and not half empty and she always has a positive outlook on life. [Because] she is very loyal to her friends, Leslie tries to practice integrity with whatever relationship that she is in, be it with her boyfriend, Joseph; or her best friend, Angela. If they ask Leslie her opinion on a topic, she will [tell] them the truth whether they like it or not.
How much of Crystle is in the character of Leslie?
A lot actually, we are both very traditional — the only difference is that the character Leslie speaks up a lot more than I do. I can take a lot, so I can hold stuff in a little longer, where Leslie will say what she feels immediately.
How did you get together with Tyler Perry to be a part of the show?
I was at a restaurant in Beverly Hills with my boyfriend and the manager of the restaurant came up to me and said, “Did you know Tyler Perry was here? Do you want to meet him?” I saw that Tyler was eating, so I told him no, because I didn’t want to be rude. But, my boyfriend walked over to him and asked him if he would like to meet Miss USA. Tyler being a gentleman said “yes, of course,” and as I approached his table I saw that he looked surprised when he said, “I didn’t know Miss USA was black.” After the introductions were made, he expressed to me that he was looking for someone with my appearance for his new show and the rest is history.
How do you stay grounded now that you have reached celeb status?
My mom keeps me humble along with my morals and background growing up in church. I think it also helps that I know that I am blessed and I don’t take any moment for granted.
What’s next?
When I get back to Los Angeles I’m going to pick a school and volunteer with [a] special needs children program. My sister is special needs, so it’s a cause that’s very close to my heart.
