Miss Universe Organization has new owner

A Thai media tycoon and transgender rights advocate is the new owner of the Miss Universe Organization (MUO).

JKN Global Group, headed by its chief executive officer and biggest shareholder Jakapong “Anne” Jakrajutatip, announced that they acquired the organizer of the 71-year-old international beauty pageant formerly owned by IMG, in a statement sent to the press, including The STAR, on Wednesday, Oct. 26.

“We are incredibly honored to be acquiring The Miss Universe Organization and working with its visionary leadership team,” said Jakrajutatip.

According to its corporate profile, JKN Global Group is a content distributor for global and Thai productions and owns and operates JKN18, a national digital terrestrial TV channel in Thailand, a 24-hour JKN-CNBC News Channel, and the 24-hour Hi-Shopping Network.

With the acquisition, JKN said it seeks to expand the brand through licensing and merchandising investments, including the launch of MU Lifestyle.

“The global reach of the organization, its relationships with global partners and brands, and its wealth of content, licensing and merchandising opportunities make this a strong, strategic addition to our portfolio,” the statement said.

“We seek not only to continue its legacy of providing a platform to passionate individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and traditions, but also to evolve the brand for the next generation.”

Jakrajutatip also made the revelation about the change in ownership via her social media accounts. She posted a photo that read “100 percent ownership,” which she captioned: “Bring yourself into the positive Harmony of the UNIVERSE and allow the 100 percent good energy into your life from now on.”

In a report by Reuters, it said that the Miss Universe Organization was bought for $20 million by the Thai trans woman billionaire, who is a celebrity in her own right in her country after starring in the local versions of such reality shows as Project Runway and Shark Tank.

The organization was co-owned by former US president Donald Trump between 1996 and 2002 and Miss Universe is broadcast in 165 countries.

Miss Universe Organization CEO Amy Emmerich and president Paula Shugart, on the other hand, expressed their excitement to continue MUO’s “evolution” under JKN.

“Our relationships with global partners and brands have never been stronger; and our progressive approach continues to position us at the forefront of our industry. We would like to thank IMG for providing us a foundation to realize our aspirations for the brand,” they said.

The 71st Miss Universe pageant will take place on Jan. 14, 2023, where Filipino-Italian beauty Celesti Cortesi is set to represent the Philippines. Reigning queen is Harnaaz Sandhu of India.