Bickering between Anne Jakrajutatip and Paula Shugart
Hello, and welcome back to my blog. Surely you are very surprised by the title of this note, but that's how things are. The current owner of the Miss Universe Organization, the transgender woman of Thai origin, Anne Jakrajutatip, and the former President of this same Organization, Mrs. Paula Shugart, of North American origin, are involved in a scandal of bickering through social media.
All started on February 10, when Aunt Anne (Jakrajutatip) publicly and very directly accused Paula of being a corrupt person and of managing the Miss Universe Organization with no transparency during the years she was in charge of the pageant brand.
We all expected an immediate reaction from Paula, referring to the issue, but it was not until today, February 18, that Paula broke the silence and defends herself against the very serious accusations.
Paula Shugart's Statement
- She will let her years of working with TRULY AMAZING WOMEN speak for themselves."
- Anne's comments are FALSE and OUTRAGEOUS.
- with those comments, Anne not only defames her, but also discredits the women who won the Miss Universe title and sash.
- She is considering proceeding legally, in Thailand (Anne Jakrajutatip's country of origin).
- She has no need to be involved in dramas like this, through social media.
- Her complaint will be just one of MANY LEGAL ACTIONS CURRENTLY FACING Anne and her business group.
"Since announcing my resignation in November of 2023, I have sought to stay out of the spotlight, electing not to comment on any of the changes within the Miss Universe Organization, seeking only to quietly help the brand and its stakeholders, when requested, with my historical knowledge and guidance.
However, recent false and outrageous comments made by Miss Universe owner Anne Jakrajutatip impugning my character have compelled me to break my silence.
Normally, I would choose to ignore such assertions but, 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 by implying their titles were 'bought' and not earned by merit. I cannot abide by such dangerous and reckless assertions, which degrade the Miss Universe brand and its Titleholders.
I am presently considering my legal options in Thailand and what actions I might take. However, given that my complaint will be just one of many legal actions currently facing the owner of JKN, it is imperative for the Miss Universe brand and its legacy that I immediately speak the truth and condemn these words before taking any action in Thai courts and I am reserving all rights to claim for damages
I have no intention or need to engage in drama on social media and I will not do so. Anyone who knows me knows the truth and what I stand for. I will let my years of work with some truly incredible women speak for itself."
I hope that things calm down or at least that they do not continue to air their differences in public, but... those of us who know "Aunt" Anne's character know that she will not sit idly by and will most likely respond and that don't delay doing it.
What do you think of all this? Do you think it will affect the image and prestige of Miss Universe even more? Let me know what you think with a comment. You already know that I read them all.