Miss USA Noelia Voigt suddenly relinquishes her title: Know why
What's the story
Noelia Voigt, the reigning Miss USA 2023, has voluntarily stepped down from her title after just seven months.
The 24-year-old Venezuelan-American beauty queen—who was the first of her lineage to win this prestigious title—announced her unexpected decision via an Instagram post on Monday.
Citing mental health issues as the reason for her resignation, Voigt emphasized, "Never compromise your physical and mental well-being. Our health is our wealth."
Career path
Voigt's journey as Miss USA and future aspirations
Voigt's reign as Miss USA was a significant journey for her, representing Utah and subsequently the US at the Miss Universe pageant.
Despite her success, she chose to step down with a hopeful outlook that her decision would inspire others to prioritize their mental health.
Voigt hinted at this being the start of a new phase in her life, harboring aspirations of launching her own design firm and hosting a television show.
Twitter Post
Take a look at her full statement
NOELIA VOIGT IS NO LONGER MISS USA 2023. ✨ Swipe to read her latest statement. #MissUSA#MissUniverse#MissUniverso#RoadToMissUSApic.twitter.com/svGkDPA6Vi
— Louise ~ PageantsNews (@PageantsNEWS) May 6, 2024
Bullying case
Time when she opened up about being bullied
Her journey to success, however, was not without its trials.
Recounting her teenage years, Voigt previously disclosed being bullied at the age of 16.
In an interview with Business Insider, she revealed, "I was so excited when I won that local pageant, and it was actually my ex-best friend who was the ringleader of it all."
"At first, it did sting...But it was clear that it was an attempt to steal the joy I had from this accomplishment."
Organizational support
Miss USA organization deliberating on plans for transferring duties
The Miss USA organization expressed its support for Voigt's decision.
They said, "We respect and support former Miss USA Noelia Voigt's decision to step down from her duties. The well-being of our titleholders is a top priority, and we understand her need to prioritize herself at this time."
The organization is currently deliberating on plans for transferring duties to a successor, with the 2023 crown likely to be passed on to the first runner-up as per pageant regulations.
Succession and trends
Potential successors and Voigt's resonance with celebrities
Potential successors for the Miss USA 2023 crown include first runner-up Savannah Gankiewicz of Hawaii or second runner-up Alexis Loomans of Wisconsin.
The organization will soon announce who will take over as the new Miss USA.
Voigt's decision to prioritize mental health aligns with a growing trend among celebrities, resonating with similar choices made by public figures such as singer Shawn Mendes, actors Kit Harington and Tom Holland, gymnasts Simone Biles and Gabby Douglas, and professional basketball player Ben Simmons.