Entertainment –
Vanessa Williams Gets Miss America Apology

I am honored to call actress and former Miss America Vanessa Williams a beautiful friend. So, I couldn’t have been more ecstatic to watch the executive chairman of the Miss America pageant formally apologize to her for the way the pageant handled her dismissal in 1984.

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For those who don’t know, Vanessa Williams made history in 1983 when she was crowned the first African-American Miss America.  However, once nude photos of her were published in Penthouse Magazine in 1984, Vanessa was forced to resign and relinquish her title. At the time of the photos, Vanessa was a young college student, trying hard to make a splash in the entertainment industry and, like most college students, in need of some quick cash. The photos were tasteful and artistic. However, considering 1984 standards, pageant officials considered the photos offensive and revoked Vanessa Williams’ title. Her runner-up, Suzette Charles (who is also African-American) was elevated to Miss America.  For a time, Vanessa Williams was treated as if she were a leper and was frozen out of the industry.

Well, that was then and this is now.

During Sunday night’s nationally televised Miss America pageant, executive chairman Sam Haskell apologized to Vanessa  for the way his predecessors handled her situation.

“I want to apologize for anything that was said or done” Haskell said to the visibly moved Williams, who returned to the pageant for the first time in 32 years as head judge. “You have lived your life in grace and dignity and never was it more evident than during the events of 1984 when you resigned. Though none of us currently in the organization were involved then, on behalf of today’s organization, I want to apologize to you and to your mother, Miss Helen Williams.  I want to apologize for anything that was said or done that made you feel any less than the Miss America you are and the Miss America you always will be.”

Vanessa, who has since become a successful stage, television and film actress, as well as recording artist, responded with grace and dignity. “I did the best I could,” she said with a smile. “On behalf of my family, my mother in particular, I’m so honored to be back.”

It may have taken 32 years, but hearing the words “I’m sorry” must have been sweet music to your ears. Congratulations, Vanessa.  I love you.  We all love you!

OK WASSUP! covers entertainment news.
Today’s article: Vanessa Williams receives apology
from Miss America pageant 32 years later