Kaylah Walton
Abbie Stockard, a 22-year-old nursing student from Alabama, has been crowned the winner of the Miss America 2025 title, sparking criticism from industry experts.
The pageant took place at the Walt Disney Theatre in Orlando, Florida, where Stockard triumphed over contestants from 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, earning a $50,000 scholarship after excelling in various segments such as evening gown, talent, fitness, and a themed question round.
During her performance in the talent segment, Abbie showcased her dance skills to Lauren Daigle’s 2018 song “You Say,” expressing that her mother and a close friend with cystic fibrosis were her sources of inspiration, according to The Sun.
Despite her success, many viewers expressed disappointment regarding the overall presentation of the event.
In a message on Miss America’s Instagram following her victory, Stockard shared her astonishment, stating, “This is insane. I can’t believe I earned this.”
Miss America Faces Social Media Backlash
The recent Miss America event, which was livestreamed on YouTube, faced significant backlash online. One critic remarked that the contest had lost its former prestige.
According to the critic, “Miss America used to be a major television event, and now I have to search for it on YouTube.”
In previous years, Miss America was broadcasted by networks such as NBC and ABC and was available on Peacock in 2022.
This year’s event was available on PageantVision.com as well as the official Miss America YouTube channel.
The win of Miss Alabama sparked controversy, with many viewers believing that second-place finisher Miss Texas, Annette Addo-Yobo, should have taken the crown instead.
Further criticism emerged on social media, with one commentator stating, “the Miss America pageant has been ruined; it’s not about the contestants, who are all incredible, but the production itself is just embarrassing.”
Viewers expressed their dissatisfaction with the organizers, calling for a complete overhaul of the event.
One attendee commented, “While I congratulate Miss Alabama, it’s clear that this organization needs to be revamped. The decline in production quality doesn’t benefit these talented women.”
Some viewers described the latest contest, the 97th edition of Miss America, as “cringeworthy” and uncomfortable to observe.
“This year’s #MissAmerica program is downright awkward to watch, and the production quality, quite frankly, is appalling.”
Stockard takes over from Madison Marsh, and the event honored the previous year’s winner, the first active duty Air Force officer to hold the title.
A message on the pageant’s X account recognized her contributions, stating, “Your remarkable accomplishments extend beyond beauty and elegance. You exemplify what can be achieved when bravery, commitment, and service unite.”
