Miss USA Winner Audrey Eckert Crowned Amid Pageant Reform

Miss USA 2025 crowns Nebraska’s Audrey Eckert as winner, marking a new era of inclusivity and reform after months of pageant controversy. Audrey Eckert from Nebraska has been crowned Miss-USA 2025, marking a major milestone for the iconic beauty pageant as it attempts to rebuild its reputation after months of turmoil and leadership disputes.

The 22-year-old digital safety advocate triumphed over 50 contestants at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada. Ivy Harrington (New Jersey) and Chantéa McIntyre (Oregon) were announced as first and second runners-up, respectively.

Eckert, a University of Nebraska-Lincoln graduate and former cheerleader, was overcome with emotion as confetti rained down while her name was called. The pageant organizers described the event as the beginning of a “new era” for Miss-USA following a year riddled with controversy.

A Fresh Start After Months of Scandal

The Miss-USA pageant has faced intense scrutiny since Miss USA 2023, Noelia Voigt, resigned last year, citing mistreatment and toxic workplace culture. Her resignation letter — later obtained by CNN — accused organizers of bullying and harassment.

Fans were quick to spot a hidden message in Voigt’s Instagram post, where the first letters of each sentence spelled out “I am silenced.” The cryptic message fueled speculation about restrictive non-disclosure agreements within the organization.

Former Miss Teen USA UmaSofia Srivastava resigned just days later, deepening the crisis and prompting calls for structural reform within the franchise.

Leadership Shakeup and Legal Battles

Earlier this year, American entrepreneur Thom Brodeur acquired the Miss-USA and Miss Teen USA licenses from the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) under a 10-year agreement. Brodeur now serves as president and CEO of the Miss-USA Organization, replacing former president Laylah Rose.

However, Rose disputed the sale, claiming she never saw valid transfer documents. MUO later confirmed Brodeur’s acquisition, describing it as a “new chapter in the pageant’s storied history.”

Legal tensions continue, with MUO’s co-owner JKN Global Group filing a lawsuit against Rose’s company VVV Global for allegedly mismanaging the brand. VVV Global, in turn, filed a countersuit claiming $116 million in damages.

Brodeur has promised transparency and reform, stating in an earlier interview that he intends to eliminate restrictive NDA clauses and foster a more supportive environment for contestants.

Pageant Highlights and Rule Changes

This year’s Miss USA week began with a lively “state costume competition,” where Miss Missouri, Shae Smith, took home the top prize. Contestants also participated in swimwear, evening gown, and interview rounds before the final top 16 were announced.

One of the biggest changes in 2025 was the removal of age, marital, and motherhood restrictions, allowing women over 28 — and even mothers — to compete for the first time. Among the contestants was 44-year-old Miss Delaware, Tetra Shockley, now the oldest competitor in Miss-USA history.

Another standout contestant, Miss New Hampshire, MonaLesa Brackett, made history as the first woman to compete wearing a hijab, signaling a new wave of inclusivity for the competition.

A Modernized Format and Digital Future

In another break from tradition, Miss Universe 2024 titleholder Victoria Kjær Theilvig crowned Eckert — instead of last year’s winner, Alma Cooper, who was absent. Meanwhile, former Miss USA Noelia Voigt made a surprise return as co-host of the live-streamed finale, symbolizing reconciliation and progress.

For the first time since 1963, Miss-USA was not broadcast on television, opting instead for a specialized streaming platform aimed at beauty and pageant enthusiasts. This digital-first approach reflects Brodeur’s vision to modernize the brand and reach younger audiences online.

What’s Next for Audrey Eckert?

With her national title secured, Audrey Eckert will now represent the United States at the 74th Miss Universe pageant in Thailand next month. The USA remains the most successful country in Miss Universe history, having won nine crowns.

Eckert, known for her advocacy around digital safety and online responsibility, says she hopes to use her platform to educate youth on creating safer digital spaces. “This is not just about beauty,” she said in her post-win statement. “It’s about empowering women to use technology and influence for good.”

A Promising New Era for Miss USA

The 2025 Miss-USA competition represents more than a return to glamour — it’s a symbol of resilience and reform. Under new leadership, the organization appears committed to inclusivity, transparency, and restoring public trust.

If the new direction continues, Miss-USA could once again become a global symbol of empowerment, redefining what it means to wear the crown in today’s world.

Miss USA.