School Pride

Actress and television personality Susie Castillo is co-host of NBC's "School Pride." Most recently on Tyler Perry's hit sitcom "House of Payne," Castillo portrayed Mercedes Hernandez. Castillo made her feature film debut in Disney's live-action comedy "Underdog," playing the role of news reporter Diana Flores. She has also guest-starred on several TV shows, including "My Wife and Kids" and "Half and Half."

In 2003, this Puerto Rican and Dominican beauty became the third Latina ever to win the Miss USA Pageant, prompting People en Español to name her one of the 25 Most Beautiful People, and launching her career in entertainment. Castillo quickly emerged as one of television's most recognizable faces, and was named on Maxim's Hot 100 list in 2008.

Shortly after, Castillo published her first book, "Confidence is Queen: The Four Keys to Ultimate Beauty Through Positive Thinking."

Until departing in 2007 to pursue a full-time career in acting, Castillo could be seen daily as host of MTV's "TRL" ("Total Request Live"), where she interviewed the biggest names in Hollywood. MTV quickly called upon her to host many of their shows, including "Big Ten," "TRL's New Year's Eve," "The VMAs on Overdrive," "The Hills After Show," and multiple "Real World Reunion" specials. MTV Radio also developed "The MTV Tr3s Countdown" for Castillo to host. The show is now in syndication and rated one of the most popular Latin radio shows, not just in the U.S., but also in Puerto Rico.

Most recently, Castillo hosted NBC's "Superstars of Dance," produced by Nigel Lythgoe and Simon Fuller (the powerhouse team behind "American Idol"), which she co-hosted with Lord of the Dance, Michael Flatley.

In 2009, Castillo became the Brand Ambassador of the fashion line Charlotte Russe, and her fresh look landed her a deal as a Neutrogena spokesperson. She is featured in a national television campaign, joining fellow Neutrogena beauties Jennifer Garner, Diane Lane, Vanessa Hudgens and Hayden Panettiere.

Castillo currently resides in Los Angeles where she spends much of her spare time supporting her favorite organizations, such as I Am That Girl and St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital. Always the environmentalist, she lives a green lifestyle, driving a hybrid car, recycling, eating locally-grown, organic foods, conserving water and energy in her home, and using earth-friendly products whenever possible. She enjoys playing beach volleyball, golfing, snowboarding, and playing with her Chihuahuas, Lupe and Oscar… who also eat organically.