Former Miss Universe President Accuses Co-Owner of Slander
Paula Shugart, the former president of Miss Universe, has taken to social media to refute allegations made by Anne Jakrajutatip, one of the current owners of the pageant. Shugart’s response comes after allegations that she was “corrupt” and accepted money “under the table” during her time in office.
Shugart, who had maintained a low profile since her resignation in November 2023, used her Instagram account to address the comments. She stated that the accusations impugn her character and discredit the women who have won the Miss Universe crown. Shugart also indicated that she is considering legal action in Thailand.
Furthermore, Shugart called for Jakrajutatip to retract her statements and condemned the allegations. She emphasized that she did not want to engage in social media dramas and would allow her work to speak for itself.
The controversy arises as Mexican businessman, Raúl Rocha Cantú, recently acquired half of the shares of JKN Global Content, the company in charge of the Miss Universe Organization, becoming the new co-owner. The organization also announced the new work team for this year’s pageant, which will be taking place at the end of the year.
Jakrajutatip has been the owner of the contest since 2022, while Shugart resigned from her position as president last November. The ongoing dispute between the former and current owners seems to indicate a challenging transition in the Miss Universe organization.