Miss Georgia, Betty Cantrell, was crowned Miss America onSunday, but we're betting that there are some New England Patriots fans who wereless than pleased about it. During the question round, country singer Brett Eldridgeasked Betty if she thought that Patriots' quarterback Tom Bradyhad cheated. "If there was question there, then yes, I think hecheated," the 21-year-old said. "If there was any question to be had,I think that he definitely cheated, and that he should've been suspended forthat."
Miss America Betty Cantrell still stunned at winning Photo: Getty Images
Throughout the night, luck seemed to be on her side as well. During the evening gown portion, Betty almost took a tumble but managed to gain her balance back. She explained later that she lost an earring during her walk as well as before the interview.
While her answer might not have been popular with some,there was one moment during the pageant that was roundly applauded — when theMiss America CEO Sam Haskell apologized to former Miss America Vanessa Williamsfor the way her nude photoscandal was handled in 1984.
Vanessa, who was forced to give up her crown 10 months intoher reign after nude photos were published in Penthouse, returned to the MissAmerica stage on Sunday night as a judge. "I have been a close friend to this beautiful andtalented lady for 32 years," Sam said. "You have lived your lifein grace and dignity, and never was it more evident than during the events of1984 when you resigned."
Miss America (left) and Vanessa Williams with Miss America CEO Sam Haskell Photo: Getty Images
It was an emotional moment for Vanessa, who got teary-eyedas he continued. "Though none of us currently in the organizationwere involved then, on behalf of today's organization, I want to apologize toyou and to your mother, Miss Helen Williams. I want to apologize for anythingthat was said or done that made you feel any less than the Miss America you areand the Miss America you always will be."
There were also some lighter moments during the show. When Shark Tank's Kevin O'Leary asked Miss Colorado KelleyJohnson which woman should be pictured on the $10 bill, her reply promptedlaughs and cheers from the audience.
Her answer? Ellen DeGeneres. "I think that woman is so amazing," Kelley said."Not only is she kind. Not only is she intelligent. Not only is her entireplatform speaking tolerance and equality for all and kindness, but she's ableto be funny without insulting someone and I think that is an incrediblefeat."
Miss Colorado's Kelley Johnson stands at 6'1 Photo: Getty Images
Miss Alabama, Meg McGuffin, who says her nickname is Egg McMuffin, was asked by Taya Kyle, widow ofUS Navy SEAL Chris Kyle, why she thought Donald Trump was leading in the polls. "I think Donald Trumpis an entertainer. I think he sayswhat's on a lot of people's minds, but I think that the Republican party shouldbe absolutely terrified of all the attention that he is taking from incrediblecandidates like Jeb Bush and Chris Christie who could absolutely do the job ofpresident of the United States. And if I were a Republican, I would absolutelybe terrified of that."
Meg — who introduced herself as being "from the statethat brought you the hottest dancer, Channing Tatum" — also pulled out somemoves of her own. During the talent portion of the show, she danced to"Clubbed to Death" from The Matrix soundtrack.
Betty Cantrell and the judges after being crowned Miss America 2016 Photo: Getty Images
Miss Oklahoma Georgia Frazer made it to the top 10 and credited Kate Middleton for her dress choice. "Kate Middleton is someone I admire and look up to. She is the idea of beauty and a confident woman so that's why i chose my gown. It looked like Kate Middleton."
Nick Jonas curated the songs for the night while Zendaya, Amy Purdy and Danica McKellar also helped judge. The evening at Atlantic City's Boardwalk Hall was hosted by Chris Harrison and Brooke Burke.
