The recent resignations of Miss USA and Miss Teen USA have sparked renewed scrutiny on the Miss Universe Organization, which has faced a series of leadership changes and controversies in recent years. Beauty pageants in general have struggled to maintain relevance as cultural norms have evolved, with declining TV ratings and leadership scandals plaguing organizations such as the Miss America pageant. The Miss Universe Organization, which has both U.S. and Thailand-based ownership, has faced financial challenges and controversy in the wake of various resignations and ownership changes.
The latest wave of turmoil within the Miss Universe Organization began in 2020 when the Miss USA pageant was handed over to former titleholder Crystle Stewart. Allegations of favoritism marred the 2022 competition, leading to Stewart’s replacement by fashion designer Laylah Rose. Previously, in 2015, NBCUniversal ended its relationship with the pageants following controversial remarks made by then-Miss Universe owner Donald Trump. The organization has struggled to stay relevant in the face of competition from influencers, reality TV stars, and other forms of entertainment.
Former Miss Montana Dani Walker, who chronicles her pageant experiences on social media, believes that the pageantry industry in the U.S. has undergone a significant cultural shift in recent years. The focus has shifted from physical beauty to public speaking skills, diversity, and advocacy. Many former Miss USA contestants have gone on to successful careers in entertainment and business, indicating a changing landscape for pageant winners. Financial challenges, however, have plagued the organization, with reports of employees going unpaid and low participation numbers in recent years.
The resignation of Miss Teen USA UmaSofia Srivastava, following closely on the heels of Miss USA Noelia Voigt’s resignation, has brought fresh attention to the organization and its current leadership. Voigt’s resignation letter pointed to cultural challenges within the organization and accused CEO Laylah Rose of unprofessional and toxic behavior. Other former employees have also cited similar challenges, with allegations of bullying, lies, and a devaluing of the Miss USA brand. Former Miss USA Shanna Moakler, now a state director within the organization, expressed support for Voigt and acknowledged the challenges facing the organization.
In light of the current controversies, Dani Walker has advised her followers in the pageant community to hold off from competing in Miss USA, citing concerns about increasingly restrictive nondisclosure agreements that titleholders must sign. The resignation statement released by Noelia Voigt contained a hidden message spelling out “I am silenced,” highlighting concerns about transparency and accountability within the organization. Despite the challenges facing the Miss Universe Organization, Moakler and other state directors are working behind the scenes to ensure the future of an organization they care deeply about, indicating a commitment to addressing the issues and moving forward towards a more stable future.
