According to a business announcement, a Thai media tycoon and advocate for transgender rights paid $20 million for the corporation that oversees the Miss Universe pageants.
In a statement released on Wednesday by the JKN Global Group, of which Anne Jakapong Jakrajutatip is the chief executive, it was revealed that Anne Jakapong Jakrajutatip, who also hosts the local “Project Runway” franchise, has become the first woman to control the beauty pageant organization altogether.
The pageant, which was once controlled by former US President Donald Trump, has received criticism for much of its 70-year history for supporting archaic notions of femininity.
Jakapong told reporters she hoped the acquisition would improve Thailand’s reputation overseas and that it was an opportunity to “develop the brand.”
She stated in Bangkok, “I hope that this would act as soft power for Thailand, and bring more tourists to our nation.”
She called the acquisition from Endeavor’s IMG a “solid, strategic addition” to the portfolio of her business.
Jakapong expressed his gratitude for the pageant’s support and love in a Facebook post.
In a statement, she added, “We aspire not just to maintain its legacy of giving a platform to enthusiastic people from varied backgrounds, cultures, and traditions, but also to adapt the brand for the future generation.
The following Miss Universe competition will take place in the US city of New Orleans in January.
165 nations watch the competition.
For foreign dramas, reality TV shows, and documentaries, JKN Global Group is the distributor in Thailand.
Following the news, JKN Global Group stock increased by about 15%.
