Miss Cleo: If you were a late-night television enthusiast in the late 90s and early 2000s, chances are you encountered the enigmatic and charismatic Miss Cleo. Known for her catchphrase “Call me now for your free reading,” Miss Cleo became a pop culture phenomenon. Behind the tarot cards and Jamaican accent, there are intriguing aspects of her life that often go unnoticed. Here are 11 untold facts about the mystical maven herself.
1. Born Youree Dell Harris: The Woman Behind the Persona
Miss Cleo’s real name was Youree Dell Harris. Born on August 12, 1962, in Los Angeles, California, she eventually adopted the persona of Miss Cleo for her psychic hotline gig.
2. A Multifaceted Talent
Before stepping into the role of a psychic, Miss Cleo was involved in various artistic pursuits. She worked as an actress, playwright, and even a singer, showcasing her diverse talents.
3. Jamaican Heritage
While Miss Cleo’s accent and persona suggested a Jamaican background, she was, in fact, born in the United States. However, her family roots are traced back to Jamaica, and she embraced her heritage to enhance the authenticity of her psychic character.
4. Educational Background in Arts
Miss Cleo held a degree in theater from the Wooster College in Ohio. Her educational background in the arts likely contributed to her ability to captivate audiences with her theatrical and mystical performances.
5. Legal Troubles with the Psychic Readers Network
The Psychic Readers Network, the company behind Miss Cleo’s psychic hotline, faced legal issues. In 2002, the Federal Trade Commission charged the network with deceptive advertising and billing practices, leading to a $5 million settlement.
6. Life Beyond the Psychic Hotline
After the demise of the Psychic Readers Network, Miss Cleo continued to pursue various ventures. She appeared in commercials, provided voiceovers for video games, and maintained a presence in the entertainment industry.
7. Private Struggles with Health
Miss Cleo faced health challenges in her later years, particularly battling colon cancer. Sadly, she succumbed to the illness on July 26, 2016, at the age of 53.
8. Gender Transition Revelation
In 2006, after years of speculation and rumors, Miss Cleo publicly acknowledged her gender transition. She bravely shared her journey, providing insight into her personal life beyond the psychic persona.
9. Legacy in LGBTQ+ Advocacy
Miss Cleo’s openness about her gender transition positioned her as an unintentional advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. Her willingness to share her story helped break down barriers and contribute to greater acceptance.
10. Spiritual Beliefs Beyond the Tarot Cards
While Miss Cleo gained fame for her tarot card readings, her spiritual beliefs extended beyond the mysticism of her television persona. She was known to embrace a broad spectrum of spiritual practices, reflecting a more nuanced understanding of metaphysics.
11. Remembered Fondly by Fans
Despite the controversies surrounding her psychic hotline days, Miss Cleo is remembered fondly by many. Her unique charm and theatrical performances left an indelible mark on late-night television, making her an enduring and iconic figure in pop culture.
Miss Cleo’s life was a tapestry of creativity, challenges, and unexpected twists. Beyond the psychic hotline, she leaves behind a legacy that transcends the mystical world she once inhabited, showcasing the complexity and resilience of a woman who defied expectations.
WRITTEN BY COLLINS
