Miss North Carolina USA Loses Title Weeks Before Miss USA Pageant

Miss North Carolina USA lost her crown weeks prior to the Miss USA pageant. The organizers cited consistent behavior that violated their standards. Miss USA Chairman Thom Brodeur declined to specify the actions leading to the decision against Brittany Boltinhouse. He stated the organization “does not tolerate racism, homophobia, transphobia, or language that degrades any person’s dignity.” The misconduct spanned “an extended period of time.”

This decision concluded Boltinhouse’s reign weeks after she won the state title. It also came less than three weeks before she was set to represent North Carolina at the 75th annual Miss USA pageant on August 27.

Brittany Boltinhouse was seen as Miss Wilmington, USA, at the North Carolina Azalea Festival in Wilmington in April.

First runner-up Myla Hadley will now represent North Carolina on the national stage. Brodeur expressed full confidence and support for her in a statement. He said the decision involved consultation with Boltinhouse, her state directors, and the Miss USA organization. While the organization upholds a “zero tolerance” policy, Brodeur stressed that accountability does not mean stripping someone of their humanity.

“There is a young woman at the center of this,” he said. “She has been examined and judged in a public arena that most would not endure, yet she’s a human with a family and a life beyond this.” He emphasized that accountability does not entail cruelty or take joy in the fall of someone who crossed a line.

“Change is not a statement. It is an ongoing record built over time,” Brodeur added.

Brodeur mentioned that Boltinhouse plans to issue her own statement. He described it as showing “ownership, accountability, and apology.” He expressed belief in people’s ability to change by their actions, not just words.

A Blaize Productions, the state pageant organizer, echoed the decision. They referenced a “thorough review of newly surfaced information” but did not elaborate on the allegations.

“We ask our pageant family, supporters, and the public to offer kindness and respect to both Brittany and Myla during this transition,” the organization stated. “These situations are difficult for everyone involved, but we remain committed to empowering future female leaders.”

Hadley acknowledged the sudden transition on social media. She noted her understanding of the “seriousness and prestige” associated with the title.

“This might seem like a two-week turnaround,” Hadley commented. “But I’ve been preparing for Miss USA since joining this organization. I am prepared to represent North Carolina.”