A Night of Surprises in Reno
The Miss USA 2025 pageant delivered glitz, drama, and a fresh face for the crown as
Audrey Eckert of Nebraska was named the new Miss USA on October 24 at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada. The 23-year-old marketing coordinator and former Husker cheerleader now steps into the national spotlight, ready to represent the United States at Miss Universe 2025 in Thailand this November.
Who Is Audrey Eckert?
Eckert, who holds a degree in business administration from the University of Nebraska, currently works as a social media and marketing coordinator for the Thai fashion brand Sapahn. Her background in both athletics and business, along with her poised performance in the swimsuit, evening gown, and interview rounds, helped her edge out 50 other contestants from across the country.
A New Era Under Thom Brodeur
This year’s pageant marked a significant shift under the leadership of new CEO
Thom Brodeur. Brodeur, a veteran pageant coach and judge, promised to restore the “iconography” and legacy of Miss USA while modernizing its approach. One of his first moves was to eliminate the traditional selection committee, making the judging process more transparent and empowering the official panel to make the final call.
The judging panel included notable names such as Miss USA 2014 Nia Sanchez,
Dancing with the Stars pro Sasha Farber, lifestyle entrepreneur Jade Roper Tolbert, fashion designer Kenneth Barlis, and model scout Hannah Edwards.
Alma Cooper’s Absence and a New Crowning Moment
In a surprising twist, outgoing Miss USA 2024
Alma Cooper (Miss Michigan) announced just hours before the final that she would not attend the event, citing personal reasons. Instead, the reigning Miss Universe, Victoria Kjær Theilvig, performed the crowning honors for Eckert. Cooper’s absence was acknowledged with a tribute during the finals, but the show pressed on with its signature sparkle.
How to Watch and What’s Next
The 74th annual Miss USA pageant was streamed live on the Queen Beauty Network (QBN) as a pay-per-view event, with viewers able to rewatch the spectacle for 48 hours after the broadcast. The winner, Audrey Eckert, now prepares for the global stage at Miss Universe 2025, set for November 21 in Thailand.
What This Means for Miss USA
With new leadership, a revamped judging process, and a charismatic new titleholder, Miss USA 2025 signals a return to form—and perhaps a new golden era—for the storied pageant. All eyes will be on Eckert as she takes her next steps on the international stage, carrying both Nebraska pride and the hopes of a revitalized Miss USA brand.
Sources
1. Meet the New Miss USA for 2025 - Parade
2. Miss USA 2025: How to Watch the Pageant Live Tonight
3. Miss USA 2024 Alma Cooper Skips 2025 Pageant With ...
4. Miss USA
5. Miss Nebraska has been crowned the winner of Miss USA 2025
6. Pageant Guru Message Board
7. Miss Nebraska Audrey Eckert Crowned Miss USA 2025 ...
