After a whirlwind year of shakeups, resignations, and reform, the Miss USA pageant is back, brighter, bolder, and promising a new chapter in American pageantry. The 74th iteration of the Miss USA competition officially takes the stage this Friday, October 24, in Reno, Nevada, bringing together 51 contestants from every state and U.S. territory to vie for the crown.
This year’s return marks a defining moment for the Miss USA organization. Following months of internal controversy, Thom Brodeur has officially stepped in as CEO, ushering in what he calls “a repositioning of the brand.” Brodeur — a longtime pageant coach, judge, and former state director — was confirmed as the new head of Miss USA and Miss Teen USA on September 15, after a brief dispute over leadership with former president and CEO Laylah Rose.
© Getty ImagesIn an interview with PEOPLE, Brodeur shared his vision of revival and renewal, saying he wants to “bring back the iconography that Miss USA and Miss Teen USA were once known for.” His appointment follows a turbulent period for the organization, most notably the unprecedented 2023 resignations of both Miss USA Noelia Voigt and Miss Teen USA UmaSofia Srivastav — a first in the pageant’s 72-year history.
All Eyes on Reno
This year’s competition unfolds at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada, a city that’s fast becoming a favorite venue for pageant history. Contestants have already been lighting up the stage in early rounds, including the state costume competition on October 21 and the preliminary event on October 22.
© Variety via Getty ImagesDuring the preliminary competition, Mary Sickler made history as the first woman with a public alopecia diagnosis to compete for Miss USA. “I lost all my hair, and I definitely didn’t think that I would be walking on the Miss USA stage without any hair, but I am,” she said. “It took me a long time to finally be able to see myself as beautiful, and I think that’s the first step. If you see yourself as beautiful and you own it, then other people will too.”
The grand finale promises a night of spectacle hosted by sports analyst and former NFL linebacker Emmanuel Acho and Miss USA 2015 Olivia Jordan. Acho, who played for the Philadelphia Eagles and famously hosted "The Bachelor: After the Final Rose," brings charm and confidence to the mic. Jordan, meanwhile, brings insider sparkle; she placed as second runner-up at Miss Universe 2015 and remains one of the franchise’s most respected alumnae.
Meet the Judges
The judging panel for 2025 is a mix of pageant royalty, entertainment flair, and fashion finesse. Leading the lineup is Nia Sanchez, Miss USA 2014 and Miss Universe first runner-up. Joining her are The Bachelor alum and entrepreneur Jade Roper Tolbert, "Dancing with the Stars" pro Sasha Farber, renowned designer Kenneth Barlis, and model scout Hannah Edwards.
© Variety via Getty ImagesThis blend of beauty, business, and artistry sets the tone for a more dynamic, multidimensional evaluation that values authenticity, advocacy, and charisma as much as evening gowns and interviews.
Where to Watch
For fans tuning in from home, the 74th Miss USA pageant will stream exclusively on the Queen Beauty Network (QBN). Access is pay-per-view, with presale tickets available. Those who purchase access will be able to rewatch the pageant for up to 48 hours after it airs live, while all QBN subscribers will gain replay access once the event concludes.
With 51 ambitious contestants stepping into the spotlight, this Friday’s pageant promises to be a reintroduction. A reminder that even icons can evolve, and that sometimes, the most beautiful comeback is one built on resilience.
© Miss Nevada USAStream the 74th Annual Miss USA pageant live from Reno, Nevada, on October 24 via Queen Beauty Network.
