Audrey Eckert from Nebraska was crowned Miss USA on Friday in a significant comeback for the pageant, which has seen its share of drama in the past year. The competition took place at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada. At just 22, Eckert, a passionate advocate for digital safety, stood out among 50 contestants. Ivy Harrington from New Jersey and Chantéa McIntyre from Oregon took the runner-up spots.
This pageant marks a new chapter after a turbulent 18 months. Last year’s Miss USA, Noelia Voigt, resigned amid troubling claims of mistreatment within the organization. The new ownership aims to steer the competition toward a positive direction, ending with a vibrant finale that included swimwear and eveningwear presentations.
Eckert expressed her surprise and joy upon winning, falling to her knees as confetti rained down. In a change from tradition, she was crowned by reigning Miss Universe Victoria Kjær Theilvig, as last year’s winner, Alma Cooper, was absent. Voigt surprised many by returning as a host for the online ceremony, highlighting the ongoing shifts within the pageant.
The turbulence began last May when Voigt resigned, igniting controversy over a supposedly toxic work environment. Social media quickly dissected her resignation post, leading to speculation about non-disclosure agreements. Voigt’s letter pointed to a “toxic work environment” and lack of proper support, touching on serious issues within the organization.
Thom Brodeur, an American businessman, recently took ownership of Miss USA and Miss Teen USA after acquiring rights from the Miss Universe Organization. His role as president aims to bring a fresh vision, though some former staff maintain claims of mistreatment under previous leadership.
Brodeur expressed a desire to shift dynamics in the pageant world, emphasizing transparency and a supportive culture. He has acknowledged the need for changes, particularly concerning past restrictions that silenced contestants. “We need to empower these young women,” he stated in a recent interview.
Since its founding in 1952, Miss USA has seen various leadership changes. Previously owned by Donald Trump, the pageant was sold in 2015, transitioning through several ownerships before the recent acquisition by Brodeur. Alongside these changes, the organization has updated its rules, now welcoming contestants over 28 and even first-time participants wearing a hijab, broadening the scope of representation.
This year’s competition began with a unique “state costume” event, highlighting creativity and culture. It also featured on-stage Q&As where contestants discussed important topics such as media representation and the role of technology in society. Interestingly, over a dozen competitors were aged 30 or older, signaling a shift in the age limits that historically barred older participants.
A notable change this year was the absence of a televised broadcast, which had been a staple since 1963. Instead, the pageant was streamed online, a shift reflecting how audiences consume entertainment today.
Eckert, now set to compete in the Miss Universe pageant next month in Thailand, will be aiming to continue the USA’s success, as American contestants have claimed nine titles in the competition’s over seven-decade history.
In a nod to the younger generation, Mailyn Marsh, a high school student from Missouri, was named Miss Teen USA, showing that the pageant is evolving and reaching out to a wider audience.
