Photo: JKN Global Group
The Miss Universe pageant is under new ownership.
Anne Jakapong Jakrajutatip, a Thai businesswoman and transgender rights advocate,has purchasedthe Miss Universe Organizationfor $20 million, according to NBC News andThe Guardian.
Jakrajutatip, 43, is now the first woman to own the Miss Universe Organization in its 71-year history, per the reports.
In addition to serving as CEO of JKN Global Group, which bought the pageant, Jakrajutatip is also a reality television star in Thailand — appearing on the country’s versions of shows likeShark TankandProject Runway, the outlets said.
Jakrajutatip also previously helped establish the Life Inspired for Transsexual Foundation, a nonprofit organization that supports transgender rights.
In a statement, Jakrajutatip saidJKN is “honored"to be working with Miss Universe’s “visionary leadership team,” according toVariety. She described the acquisition as “a strong, strategic addition” to the group’s portfolio.
“We seek not only to continue its legacy of providing a platform to passionate individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and traditions, but also to evolve the brand for the next generation,” Jakrajutatip said, per the outlet.
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The pageant, which has been running since 1952, saw itsfirst transgender contestantin 2018: Miss Spain, Angela Ponce.
Mark Shapiro, president of Endeavor, said the company is “proud” of the success the pageant achieved during its ownership, and is looking forward to the “next chapter” of its story.
“[Miss Universe president] Paula [Shugart] and I see tremendous opportunity with JKN to create further growth for this organization on the global stage and women around the world,” Shapiro said, according toVariety.
“Despite having recently celebrated the organization’s legacy of more than 70 years, we are just getting started,” he added.
Shugart will remain as president of the pageant, while Amy Emmerich will remain as CEO,Varietyreported.
source: people.com
