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At left, the Miss USA loss that destroyed Dobson's will to pageant; at right, a brave face for her fans.

Meet the new face of Star magazine: Miss Michigan 2000 Jill Dobson! Dobson has been hired as Star's News & Style editor-at-large for the tabloid, meaning that she'll be the one to go on the morning shows to yap about whatever "exclusive" the magazine is hawking on that day. Dobson's magazine experience is nonexistent, but she's worked as a talking head for various entertainment shows and, more importantly, was a finalist in the Miss USA pageant. Poise in a swimsuit is important when you're explaining why Reese Witherspoon hates you.

Full release after the jump.

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AMERICAN MEDIA INC. NAMES JILL DOBSON
NEW FACE OF STAR MAGAZINE

New York, NY (June 20, 2006) — Star magazine today announces the appointment of Jill Dobson as News & Style Editor at Large. Jill, who will serve as the primary spokeswoman for Star on television starting June 19th, will report to Bonnie Fuller, American Media's Chief Editorial Director.

Previously, Ms. Dobson was a New York correspondent for E! News Live. Jill also served as a host for the National Lampoon Networks, reported for News 12 Long Island and co-hosted specials on Bravo and WE Networks. Ms. Dobson began her television career as a news reporter for the CBS affiliates in Grand Rapids and Lansing, Michigan, her home state. Jill is a graduate of Troy University and received her Masters of Arts at Michigan State University. In 2000, she was named Miss Michigan USA and was a Top Ten Finalist at Miss USA.

"Jill Dobson is an articulate and smart reporter whose sparkling personality and celebrity know-how will bring Star to life on television," said Bonnie Fuller. "As Star's popularity and media presence continues to grow, our readers will recognize Jill as the personality they trust to receive the most accurate and up-to-do date celebrity news. We are thrilled to welcome her to our team."

American Media, Inc. is one of the largest media companies in the U.S. and the leading publisher of celebrity journalism and health and fitness magazines. These include Star magazine, The National Enquirer, the nation's largest selling weekly for 80 years, Shape, Men's Fitness, Fit Pregnancy and Natural Health.

American Media Inc. Hires New Face of Star [FishbowlNY]