Cheryl Moana Marie Nunes is a talented individual known for her work as a TV presenter, former Oakland Raiderette, beauty pageant winner, and musician. Born May on 17, 1971, in Hillsboro, Oregon. Cheryl’s life journey has been as varied and vibrant as her career.
Early Life and Background
Cheryl was born to Hawaiian parents, and soon after her birth, the family returned to Kaua’i Island. She was named after John Rowles song Cheryl Moana Marie, which reflects her Hawaiian heritage. Growing up in Hawaii, Cheryl was exposed to the cultural traditions of the islands, which played a key role in influencing her artistic tastes.
Early Career and Beauty Pageants
Cheryl’s first performances were in school plays and local music competitions. By the age of 14, she had performed at Disneyland, Japan, at the World Gala Event in Tokyo. Her talent and charisma were evident and by the age of 17, she had won several beauty contests, including Miss Kauai America, making her the youngest person to win the title. She also competed at Miss Hawaii America.
Cheryl began modeling for Sports Illustrated photographer Bob Coello during her reign as Miss Kauai America. Through her talent in beauty pageants and modelling, she competed in Miss California USA, where she placed in the top five and won Miss Asia USA.
Cheerleading and Music Career
Cheryl was a Los Angeles Raiderette and later moved to Oakland in 1995. She became a Raiderette and a big name in sports entertainment.
Aside from cheerleading, Cheryl also pursued a career in music. She performed at various concerts and sang the Star-Spangled Banner for various sports events, including the Los Angeles Lakers, Ice Dogs Hockey League, Los Angeles Dodgers, NHRA, and the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach. She also recorded the theme song for Hawaiian Tropic “Come With Me,” and recorded for Sony International, J Records, G Funk Camp, and Virgin Records. Cheryl’s musical gifts made her become one of Luis Miguel’s backup singers – touring the US, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic.
Television and Modeling
Cheryl was also a television presenter for STARZ movie channel. She conducted interviews with popular celebs such as Antonio Banderas, Ice Cube, Cedric The Entertainer, Lucy Liu, Raquel Welch, Matthew Perry, Mary Wilson, and The Funk Brothers of Motown. She also did ads for the Dominican Republic Tourism Bureau, Clairol Shampoo, and MTV Network.
Her modeling experience included appearances in national commercials for popular brands like Miller Genuine Draft Beer, Mervyns, FedEx, Heineken Beer, GMC Motors, Albertsons, and Taco Bueno. She also booked modeling ads for La Jolla Swimwear, Bridal Magazine, and Hinano Beer Tahiti.
Personal Life and Challenges
In May 2011, Cheryl gave birth to her first son Antonio Kamakanaalohamaikalani Harvey Sabato, with Italian American model and actor Antonio Sabato Jr. The pair met in Hawaii while filming the VH1 reality TV show, “My Antonio.” They married in 2012 and divorced in 2016 over alleged drug abuse by Sabato Jr. Cheryl sought sole physical custody of their son citing safety concerns.
Legacy and Current Life
Cheryl Moana Marie Nunes has led an interesting life. Her work spans from beauty pageants to music and television. Cheryl has remained focused on her career and family despite personal struggles. As of now, Cheryl continues to live a private life, away from the public eye.