Lawsuit Threat by Miss Universe Ex-President
Bangkok, Feb 19 (EFE).-
Former Miss Universe organization president Paula Shugart has threatened to sue the beauty pageant’s Thai owner, Jakapong Anne Jakrajutatip, following “outrageous” bribery allegations against her.
In an Instagram post, Shugart said she has sought to “stay out of the spotlight” since announcing her resignation in November 2023.
“However, recent false and outrageous comments made by Miss Universe owner Anne Jakrajutatip impugning my character have compelled me to break my silence,” she said, adding she was considering legal options against the Thai owner.
“I cannot abide by such dangerous and reckless assertions, which degrade the Miss Universe brand and its Titleholders,” Shugart said.
Jakrajutatip, the Thai businesswoman who purchased the Miss Universe brand in 2022, had accused Shugart, who left the position she held for over 20 years in November, of being corrupt and having received bribes to award positions in the beauty pageant.
“By suggesting that I am corrupt and took money ‘under the table’ to secure placements in Miss Universe competitions, Jakrajutatip not only defames me, but she also discredits the women who have won the Miss Universe crown.”
The Thai company JKN Global Group, led by Jakrajutatip, acquired Miss Universe in October 2022 for $20 million from IMG Worldwide LLC, based in New York.
Since then, JKN Global Group has suffered liquidity problems and has even asked Thailand’s Central Bankruptcy Court in November to enter into a process of restructuring its operations and debt.
Miss Universe has been held annually since 1952, broadcast in more than 160 countries. The next edition will take place in Mexico on a date yet to be decided. EFE
