Crowning Moment Denied: Miss England Bows Out Over a Clash of Values

Hyderabad-based Miss World 2025 beauty pageant was tainted by controversy as Miss England 2024 Milla Magee dramatically walked out, citing a fundamental clash in values and alleging exploitation by organizers. Cornish plus-size campaigner and lifeguard Magee stormed out halfway through the contest to become the first Miss England in the 74-year history of the competition to do so, alleging that she was "farmed out for entertainment" and forced to mix with affluent male sponsors, dressed in ballgowns and makeup from dawn until dusk.

 

Magee's shocking claims—"I felt like a prostitute"—have put the world in conversation regarding the morality and purpose of beauty pageants in today's world. She said her ambitions of raising money for charity were destroyed by outdated rituals and disrespect for the contestants. But organizers say Magee left after a family emergency and have labeled her allegations as "false and defamatory," releasing videos they say show an upbeat experience.

 

Magee was substituted by runner-up Charlotte Grant for the May 31 culmination. The event has darkened the pageant and created calls for reform in global pageantry.

 

Source: Siasat, Gulte, Deccan Herald, Republic World, News18, Telangana Today