The Miss Universe Organization has been acquired by a transgender rights activist and celebrity media entrepreneur from Thailand for $20 million, her firm said on October 26. This is the first time a woman would own the competition.
The CEO and largest shareholder of JKN Global Group, Jakapong “Anne” Jakrajutatip, is well-known in Thailand for appearing in the country’s local adaptations of Project Runway and Shark Tank.
She founded the Life Inspired For Thailand Foundation to promote the rights to dignity and opportunities for transgender persons, and she has been outspoken about her experience as a transgender woman.
According to Jakapong, the purchase is “a significant strategic addition to our portfolio,” with Miss Universe’s content, licensing, and merchandising prospects to expand in Asia.
