Everything you need to know about the Miss USA pageant
Miss USA has been around for over 70 years. Here's everything you need to know about the pageant, from its rules to how to watch the finals.
The Miss USA pageant began in 1952 as a swimsuit competition after Miss America 1951 winner Yolande Betbeze refused to pose in a swimsuit. The first winner was Jackie Loughery, and the pageant soon included evening gown and interview rounds. Women aged 18 and over can now compete, with an age restriction of 28 until 2024. Married women and mothers are also eligible to participate.
The pageant consists of three rounds: swimsuit, evening gown, and interview, with the winner receiving a yearly salary and attending various events. The Miss USA organization has undergone ownership changes, notably from Donald Trump's Miss Universe Organization to its current form. Eligibility rules have relaxed, allowing married women and transgender women to compete.
Notable winners include Rima Fakih, Laura Martinez-Herring, and Myrna Hansen. The pageant has faced controversy, including allegations of rigging in 2022 and resignations of winners in 2024 citing abuse.
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