As they say, the show must go on. Miss USA organizers have released a statement in the wake of NBC cancelling the broadcast of the pageant after Donald Trump’s controversial statements slamming Mexican immigrants. They don’t mention trump once as they announce that the show will go on as planned, in Baton Rouge, on July 12. It just won’t be on TV.
The 2015 MISS USA Pageant will still take place in Baton Rouge on July 12th. We are disheartened by recent events but the show will go on.
The Miss Universe Organization operates as an independent company. In its 64 year history, and under many owners, Miss Universe has developed into a globally recognized brand, with nearly 150 franchise holders domestically and internationally, the majority of whom are small business owners.
The Miss Universe Organization is built on a foundation of inclusion and continues to be a celebration of diversity and of all cultures. This year’s Miss USA contestants represent many different ethnic backgrounds, including six Latinas (four of whom are of Mexican descent).
Annually, nearly ten thousand young women all around the world participate in MISS UNIVERSE pageant events. We continue to welcome those from all backgrounds to enter our system. Our franchisees work tirelessly every day to empower young women to be confident and to be their personal best while raising awareness and millions of dollars for philanthropic endeavors.
While world politics and other influences will undoubtedly play a role, the pageant will always seek to transcend controversy. It is unfortunate that recent events beyond our control have only served to negatively impact the women who participate in the pageant, our state directors, our sponsors and our fans. We want our supporters to know we remain committed to them and we will be conducting the pageant, regardless of the current situation. We are moving forward, full-steam ahead as planned for the next two weeks, culminating in the crowning of a new Miss USA on July 12th.
I hate pageants for all the usual reasons, but I do feel sorry for the women who are competing. They’ve spent their lives preparing for this moment in the limelight. Because the guy who owns the show is an idiot, they’re being robbed of that moment.
The Voice 7 winner, Craig Wayne Boyd was scheduled to perform at the pageant. There’s no word whether he, or any of the other special guests, will appear.
UPDATE: Dance pro, Cheryl Burke, has bowed out of hosting duties. She announced the news on Facebook.
MISS USA
In light of the recent statements made by Donald Trump and the subsequent decision by NBC to cut ties with Mr. Trump, I cannot in good conscience move forward with participating in this year’s Miss USA Pageant as its co-host. Effective today I have withdrawn from my duties with Miss USA. Although I will not be there in person, I wish all of the contestants much luck as I know how hard they’ve all been working over the last year to try and realize their dreams.