A transgender Thai businesswoman has bought the Miss Universe Organization for $20 million, amid the competition being marred by a cheating scandal and claims of an executive being accused of sexual harassment.
Jakkaphong ‘Anne’ Jakrajutatip, CEO and biggest shareholder of JKN Global Group Pcl (JKN), is a celebrity in Thailand, starring in local versions of reality shows Project Runway and Shark Tank.
Her purchase of the organization marks the first time the beauty pageant will be owned by a woman, her company said on Wednesday.
Jakrajutatip’s has been outspoken about her experience as a transgender woman and also set up the Life Inspired For Thailand Foundation to advocate for the rights to dignity and opportunities for transgender people.
The news was announced just days after Miss Universe suspended the organizers of Miss USA amid claims that its bosses crowned a winner unfairly this month, among other ongoing drama, including a cheating scandal and claims of sexual harassment.
