Miss America Organization Finally Apologizes to Vanessa Williams After Taking Her Crown

32 years ago, Vanessa WIlliams became the first Miss America to resign her crown due to nude photos that were published in "Penthouse" without her consent. Though the first African American winner of the title went on to have a successful career in the entertainment industry, in 1984 she told People that the scandal was the worst thing that ever happened to her.

AP Photo

Williams was invited back to be the head judge of this year's competition. During Sunday's broadcast of the Miss America Pagaent, Sam Haskell, the executive chairman of the Miss America pageant, apologized to Williams on behalf of the organization.

“I have been a close friend to this beautiful and talented lady for 32 years. You have lived your life in grace and dignity and never was it more evident than during the events of 1984 when you resigned. Though none of us currently in the organization were involved then, on behalf of today’s organization, I want to apologize to you and to your mother, Miss Helen Williams. I want to apologize for anything that was said or done that made you feel any less than the Miss America you are and the Miss America you always will be."

“Thank you so much. So unexpected, but so beautiful,” Williams responded. “I did the best that I could in my reign as Miss America in 1983-84. I, on behalf of my family – my mother in particular – Brian Edwards, who orchestrated this entire thing to bring me back. And your leadership, your integrity, you bring this pageant back to what it ought to be. I love you. I love the girls. I’m so honored to be back.”

Photo: Youtube

Watch the long over due apology below.

Photo: Youtube screenshot

apology miss america Vanessa Williams