Abbie Stockard, a Miss Alabama cheerleader, has been crowned Miss America 2025, emerging victorious over 10 other finalists to win the prestigious title and a $50,000 tuition scholarship. The 97th annual Miss America pageant, held at the Walt Disney Theater in Orlando, concluded in a dazzling finale as 2024 titleholder Madison Marsh handed over the crown to Stockard after a series of challenging events.
Despite the celebration surrounding her win, the pageant faced criticism from some who feel that the competition has strayed from its traditional roots, sparking debate about its evolving identity.
Our very own Miss Alabama, Abbie Stockard, has won the title of Miss America! I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Abbie, and I know firsthand what an outstanding young woman she is. She is incredibly deserving of this honor. Congratulations, Abbie! #alpolitics pic.twitter.com/rfMRVesnIP
— Governor Kay Ivey (@GovernorKayIvey) January 6, 2025
Congrats to Vestavia Hills’ Abbie Stockard- Miss America 2025 pic.twitter.com/bQ2sFyu6dz
— carol robinson (@RobinsonCarol) January 6, 2025
Abbie Stockard shares about her upbringing
Miss America 2025 winner Abbie Stockard shared how her mother inspired her by juggling multiple jobs to raise her and her close friend battling cystic fibrosis. Stockard also revealed her aspiration to earn a PhD in anesthesia with a focus on pediatrics.
However, her crowning moment was somewhat eclipsed by the decision to stream the pageant on YouTube, marking a departure from its traditional broadcasts on major networks like NBC, ABC, and Peacock. The shift sparked concerns about the event’s visibility and accessibility, as noted by the Daily Mail.
Adding to the controversies, during Sunday’s competition, finalists participated in a segment where they debated randomly assigned topics, showcasing their ability to think on their feet. While the debate on censorship aimed to be thought-provoking, it was briefly overshadowed by a glaring typo displayed on stage screens. The mishap distracted from the discussion, drawing criticism, as reported by Mirror US.
Viewers complain
One user remarked, “Looked like it had been filmed with an iPhone. Just awful production.” Another added, “Low end production!! Miss America used to be a nationally televised, prestigious event!!”
A third user commented, “It’s time for my annual they destroyed Miss America post. This isn’t directed at the girls; they are all incredible and talented. BUT off the bat this production is awful and honestly cringe.”
Echoing similar sentiments, another user wrote, “The production of the Miss America competition is really not great.”
