Miss USA 2004, the 53rd Miss USA pageant, was held on April 12, 2004 at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood, California. Shandi Finnessey of Missouri won, becoming the first titleholder from Missouri, and was crowned by outgoing Miss USA Susie Castillo of Massachusetts. Hosted by Billy Bush and Nancy O'Dell, the judging panel included Jeff Gordon, Jerry Buss, John Salley, Mekhi Phifer, Rocco DiSpirito, and Jill Stuart. The format featured 15 semifinalists, reduced to 10 after evening gown and to 5 after swimsuits, with not all semifinalists competing in both. It was the first Miss USA held in April since 1979. Pageant co-owner Donald Trump opened with his "You're fired" catchphrase from The Apprentice.