Interview: Actor and striker Alan Klingbeil is the ‘Mississippi Man’ of Mister USA 2024

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Alan Klingbeil
Alan Klingbeil. Photo Credit: John Conroy

Alan Klingbeil is both an actor and a striker (in the “Power Slap”). He chatted with #Powerjournalist Markos Papadatos about repping Mississippi in the upcoming Mister USA competition.

Oscar Wilde once said: “A dreamer is one who can only find his way by moonlight, and his punishment is that he sees the dawn before the rest of the world.” This quote applies to Alan Klingbeil.

“It is so exciting,” he said about being a part of the 2024 “Mister USA”. “It is truly an honor to be a part of this.”

Mister USA is an American beauty pageant, which is held annually, and the winner goes on to represent the United States in the Mister Universe competition. It is a celebration of culture, diversity, beauty, intelligence and empowerment. They believe in the power of young leaders to make a difference in the world. It is not solely about outer beauty; it recognizes the inner beauty and intelligence of their contestants. It will be held on August 11, 2024 in Hollywood.

On the message that he wants to get across in the “Mister USA” competition, he said, “I want to promote the idea that pursuing your dreams is possible no matter your situation.” 

The winner of Mister USA will subsequently represent USA at “Mister Universe” on September 28, 2024 at The Biltmore in Los Angeles.

On his daily motivations, he remarked, “My faith, and helping others with their pursuit of happiness.”

Regarding his future plans, he revealed, “Becoming a champion in Power Slap, and becoming a well-known professional actor.”

As an actor, Klingbeil has made notable appearances in Seasons 1, 2, 3, and 4 of “Walker” on The CW network.

In Power Slap, Klingbeil noted that one has to train the body in a similar fashion to boxing and MMA (mixed martial arts) with a bigger emphasis on the neck. He also shared that one needs to understand physics and body mechanics in an effort to have a proper defense.

On his career-defining moments, he explained, “At one point, I hit a dry season where nothing seemed to be happening for a few months, and I had to continue to dig down deep and push forwards just for me and my goals, and develop myself. After that I made a decision that I would go all in no matter what happened, no matter the cost, and I really began to grow as both an athlete and an actor. 

He went on to share the greatest lesson that his journey has taught him: “Life is too short not to live it.”

Klingbeil concluded about Mister USA, “I hope you feel inspired to take advantage of the freedoms you have, and you choose to try and achieve something great.”

To learn more about Alan Klingbeil, follow him on Instagram.