New Miss America addresses online backlash over makeup

The newly crowned Miss America Cassie Donegan addressed online backlash over her makeup, saying she respects opinions but will not let criticism overshadow her title. In an interview with FOX News, she said, "when something big like this happens there's going to be many opinions," and that "everyone has the right to their own opinion in such a big public forum like the internet." Donegan added that she respects others' opinions, but that does not mean she wants negative comments about her appearance. In a separate discussion with PEOPLE, she said "their opinion is their truth" and that she would not let that judgment cloud her win.

The 28-year-old, previously Miss New York, faced taunting comments after a video posted by the Miss America account criticized her concealer shade. Critics wrote lines like "Congrats love! Let's get you a new makeup artist," and "Love it but we need to have someone fix her concealer. It's a bit too white and drowns her out." Some online commenters even suggested the runner-up Miss Texas Sadie Schiermeyer should have won instead. Donegan, however, is redirecting her attention to being a role model for younger girls, focusing on empowerment and self-belief.

She told fans that she hopes to uplift others: "I want them to believe in themselves, because if they don’t, no one else will. Empowerment really comes from within." She added, "If there’s even a small part of me that brings that spark out of them, then I’ve done my part." She also noted that Miss America has long served as a platform for ambitious women to turn dreams into reality, speaking through a press release.

Donegan's win came as she beat more than 52 contestants representing all 50 states to claim the title and a $50,000 tuition scholarship. She was crowned by the previous winner, Abbie Stockard of Alabama. During her rapid-answer round, she stressed the importance of being true to oneself and said, "This is your vessel, and you should be able to walk around proudly in it." She also spoke about the Miss America program as a springboard for pursuing professional goals.

In addition to pageant success, Donegan is a singer and actor who earned recognition for vocal gifts after the 2026 Talent Competition. Her new role as Miss America adds a platform to advocate for young women, she said, aiming to empower the next generation.