JKN Global Group has bought the Miss Universe Organization from IMG headed by their CEO Anne Jakrajutatip, becoming the first woman to own the beauty pageant.
JKN Global Group Pcl (JKN) (JKN.BK), whose CEO and biggest shareholder is Jakapong "Anne" Jakrajutatip, a Thai celebrity media tycoon and transgender rights advocate, has bought the Miss Universe Organization from IMG as announced by the company on October 26.
Jakrajutatip is a reality TV star in Thailand, appearing on local versions of “Project Runway” and “Shark Tank,” and now the first woman to own the global beauty pageant in its 71-year history.
Jakrajutatip said her company’s acquisition of the Miss Universe brand is a “strong, strategic addition to our portfolio,” as the company already produces its own shows and distributes content in Thailand from abroad including documentaries and Bollywood dramas.
“We seek not only to continue its legacy of providing a platform to passionate individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and traditions, but also to evolve the brand for the next generation,” she said.
The Miss Universe Organization was previously owned by Endeavor’s IMG after acquiring it from co-owner former US President Donald Trump in 2015.
Despite the new owners, the organization will continue to be led by its current CEO, Amy Emmerich, and president, Paula Shugart.
“We are excited to continue the evolution of The Miss Universe Organization with JKN. Our relationships with global partners and brands have never been stronger; and our progressive approach continues to position us at the forefront of our industry. We would like to thank IMG for providing us a foundation to realize our aspirations for the brand,” Emmerich and Shugart shared in a statement.
Following the deal with the JKN Global Group, Endeavor President Mark Shapiro also said he is “proud of the progress the organization has made in becoming a more inclusive and powerful platform where women can advance both their business objectives and their cause-based work.”
Tags: miss universe, pageant, company