Sat Apr 05 12:20:00 UTC 2025: ## One Tree Hill Star Bethany Joy Lenz Crowned Queen of Wilmington’s Azalea Festival

**WILMINGTON, NC** – Actress Bethany Joy Lenz, best known for her role as Haley James Scott in the popular television series *One Tree Hill*, has been crowned Queen of the 2025 North Carolina Azalea Festival. The Wilmington native expressed immense honor at being selected, citing her deep connection to the city and the state.

Lenz, who spent a decade filming *One Tree Hill* in Wilmington, returned to the city numerous times since the show’s conclusion in 2012 for reunions, conventions, and even to help preserve filming locations. She credits the show’s enduring popularity to its relatable portrayal of teenagers navigating their emotions, a theme that resonates across generations.

The coronation ceremony, which kicked off the festival’s events, marked a significant moment for Lenz. While she has enjoyed a successful acting career, including recent roles in Hallmark movies and shows such as *Dexter* and *Grey’s Anatomy*, and hosts the popular *Drama Queens* podcast, she openly discussed the challenges she faced.

In her 2024 memoir, *Dinner for Vampires*, Lenz detailed her experience being involved with a religious cult for over a decade. She described being manipulated financially and professionally, including missing out on a Broadway opportunity. Despite the hardships, Lenz expressed gratitude for the lessons learned and the personal growth she’s experienced since leaving the group.

Currently, Lenz is also the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Modern Vintage, a newspaper focused on art and lifestyle, and plans to continue her work in music and writing. The Azalea Festival provides a homecoming of sorts for the actress, allowing her to celebrate Wilmington and its community.

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