Francis Louise Parker aka Lu biography

Real biography: The Lu Parker Story

She began her television career at WCSC (CBS affiliate) in Charleston, South Carolina. Before her career in broadcasting, Parker was a ninth grade English Literature teacher. In 1994, while representing the state of South Carolina, Parker won the title of Miss USA 1994. She went on to compete in the Miss Universe Pageant, where she placed among the top six finalists. Parker is also the author of "Catching the Crown: The Source for Pageant Competition."

For the past two years Paker has co-hosted the Hollywood Christmas Parade alongside "Entertainment Tonight" host Mark Steines. In 2007, Parker reported from behind the scenes at the Tournament of Roses Parade. In addition to her KTLA reporting duties, Parker has played a reporter on several popular television shows, including ABC's "Commander in Chief," USA's "Monk" and CBS's "Shark."

Parker holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the College of Charleston, where, in 1994, she was named Alumnus of the Year. She also holds a Master of Arts Degree in Education from the Citadel, which means she can also probably kill you with her bare hands (but would choose not to).

In her free time, Parker is "an avid golfer and loves to shoot a shotgun." She took the top overall female award five years in a row at the Louise Mandrell celebrity shootout. She also participates in the annual Mark Harmon Celebrity Event that raises thousands of dollars for disabled children.