Jeannie Mai is a multi-talented American individual who has made a name for herself in the entertainment industry. She is a makeup artist, fashion expert, actress, and TV personality. Her most notable work includes hosting the TV shows "How Do I Look?" and "Character Fantasy".
Born in San Jose, California, to a Vietnamese immigrant father and Chinese mother, Mai grew up in a family of 16 members. She began entertaining at an early age, using her mother's makeup to get dressed up and interview her family members.
Mai started her career as a makeup artist for MAC Cosmetics at the age of 18. She worked her way up to becoming a celebrity makeup stylist, working with famous clients such as Christina Aguilera, Alicia Keys, and Rosario Dawson. She also worked as a makeup stylist for MTV's TRL and Good Morning Sacramento.
In 2003, Mai began auditioning for local TV networks with self-written scripts, showcasing her hosting talents. She landed a gig co-hosting the Emmy-nominated show "Stir TV" and soon after became the first female VJ to host her own music countdown on CMC, a local music channel.
Mai's big break came in 2005 when she landed her first primetime hosting role on "Character Fantasy" on the USA Network. She also appeared on MTV's "Granted" and hosted various segments on E!, Lifetime, TLC, and NBC.
In 2008, Mai participated in the reality show "Miss America: Reality Check" on TLC, where she helped revamp the Miss America pageant. She also starred in "Dude, Where's Your Style" and toured the world as the spokesperson for "Never Accept Ordinary", a line of cosmetics that promotes individuality through color.
Mai took over as the host of "How Do I Look?" in 2009, a show that empowers women to discover their true beauty and overcome their insecurities. She also serves as a correspondent and weekend host on NBC's "Extra" with Mario Lopez.
In her free time, Mai frequently takes mission trips to Africa, Thailand, and Vietnam, where she works with organizations that provide health care for impoverished children and rescue women and children from sex trafficking.
Mai is married to Freddy Harteis, host of "The Hollywood Hunter", and currently resides in Los Angeles.
