Miss USA 2025 wasn’t just a crowning — it was a reset. Under new CEO Thom Brodeur, the Reno pageant delivered firsts: mothers in top 20, women over 28, hijab & burkini, open casting finalists. Noelia Voigt returned to host after her 2024 resignation.

Alma Cooper skipped. All 51 contestants got full scholarships. From Taylor Hale’s Steve Harvey joke to Audrey Eckert’s dad sprinting onstage, here’s the full behind-the-scenes — plus pageant prep tips for aspiring queens.

The Comebacks & Absences

• Noelia Voigt: Resigned May 2024 citing “toxic environment.” Returned to co-host prelims. Told Audrey: “Stick true to your heart.”

• Alma Cooper: 2024 winner. Skipped crowning (amid lawsuit over unpaid salary). Honored with “Shallow” tribute by Brooklyn Duo.

• Victoria Kjær Theilvig: Miss Universe 2024 crowned Audrey in Alma’s place.

Voigt to Business Insider: “Tell every girl afraid to compete — sign up now. Things are different.”

History-Making Finalists

Firsts in Miss USA Top 20:

Open Casting: 4 top 20 from Brodeur’s call (3 weeks prep!).

Prize & Scholarship Overhaul

Audrey’s Haul ($250K+):

• $75K cash

• Jaguar car

• Cannes Film Festival trip

• Johnathan Kayne modeling contract

• Red carpet appearances

All 51 Contestants:

• Full 4-year scholarship to Mississippi State (first ever).

• Miss Teen USA winner Mailyn Marsh (Missouri): “I don’t think I’ve shut up about it.”

Viral Moments from Reno

2. Taylor Hale (Big Brother winner, Miss Teen host): “Not doing a Steve Harvey today!” (crowd roared).

4. Personality Qs: Miss Idaho — never had PB&J. Miss Texas — WWE addict. Miss NJ — ate whole pizza.

6. Dad Dash: Audrey’s dad sprinted yelling “Yeah!” — same as state win.

7. Post-Win Chant: Contestants: “USA! USA! USA!” Family: “Big Red!” (Nebraska).

8. Makeup Tears: One queen: “I can’t cry — this makeup is too expensive.”

Pageant Prep: Steal the Top 5 Looks

Recreate finalist vibes under $150:

1. Swimsuit Confidence
High-cut one-piece.
Shop:

• Cupshe High-Leg ($35) + Cover-up ($20) = $55.

2. Evening Gown Elegance
Cape sleeve satin.
Shop:

• Lulus Satin Gown ($90) + Heels ($40) = $130.

3. Interview Power
Tailored suit.
Shop:

• Shein Blazer Set ($60) + Clutch ($25) = $85.

4. State Costume Fun
(For Halloween!)
Shop:

• Amazon Cornhusker Cape ($30) + Crown ($15) = $45.

5. Glow Essentials
Dewy skin + bold lip.
Shop:

• e.l.f. Halo Glow ($14) + Maybelline Vinyl ($11) = $25.

Total Kit: $340 (reusable for formals).