UPDATE: Taylor Hale, the first Black winner of “Big Brother,” has returned to the pageant world, hosting the Miss Teen USA competition on October 23, 2023. This comeback comes amidst ongoing controversies surrounding the Miss USA organization, as Hale calls for a transformation in the pageant industry.
Hale’s journey from Miss Michigan to a reality TV star has inspired many, especially young pageant contestants. Crowds gathered at the event as Gen Z participants expressed their admiration, with one contestant stating, “You were my inspo for so many years.” Hale’s presence at the event signifies a pivotal moment for pageants, as she aims to elevate the platform for future queens.
The Miss USA organization has faced severe scrutiny over the past few years, including allegations of sexual harassment against former vice president Max Sebrechts, which Hale herself publicly addressed. Sebrechts, who resigned in early 2022, has denied the allegations. Amidst leadership changes and scandals, the pageant’s reputation has taken a hit, raising questions about its relevance.
After reuniting with the pageant community, Hale shared her emotional journey back to the stage. “I did not expect to feel everything so deeply,” she revealed, expressing her struggles about returning to an organization that had once caused her distress. Yet, she felt compelled to support the next generation of queens, stating, “The girls that get on the stage to compete, they are girls with a dream.”
Hale emphasized the importance of evolving the pageant to stay relevant in today’s landscape. “I want the girl who wins Miss USA to be in that same league as influencers,” she declared, urging the organization to embrace modernity. She believes the pageant must prioritize authenticity and address social issues, advocating for a return to challenging questions that stimulate intellectual engagement.
With the new leadership of Thom Brodeur as CEO, Hale sees potential for positive change. “Do I think they’re on the right path? Yes,” she remarked, acknowledging the challenges ahead. However, she warned that rebuilding the brand would require significant effort, likening it to “digging yourself out of a 6-foot hole.”
As Hale stars in “The Amazing Race,” her advocacy for pageant queens reflects a broader cultural shift. “If this is a space where showing hyper-femininity is safe and celebrated, that’s worth protecting,” she said, underscoring the necessity for the pageant to adapt while maintaining its core values.
The future of Miss USA hangs in the balance, with Hale’s involvement signaling hope for a revitalized image. As she leads by example, the question remains: will the pageant embrace change and evolve to meet the expectations of today’s aspiring queens?
