Miss USA Winner Noelia Voigt Announces Resignation — Read Her Statement

Noelia Voigt, who was crowned Miss USA in September 2023, is resigning from the role.

Voigt announced her decision to step down in a lengthy Instagram statement on Monday, citing mental health struggles.

More from TVLine

“In life, I strongly value the importance of making decisions that feel best for you and your mental health,” she wrote. “As individuals, we grow through experiencing different things in life that lead us to learning more about ourselves. My journey as Miss USA has been incredibly meaningful, representing Utah with pride, and later the USA at Miss Universe. Sadly, I have made the very tough decision to resign from the title of Miss USA 2023.

“Never could I have imagined the journey that my childhood dream would take me on,” Voigt continued. “Constant and consistent hard work and dedication all lead me to where I am today, and I hope that over the last seven years of competing in pageantry and sharing my journey with you all is something that inspires you to never give up on your dreams, whatever they may be… My hope is that I continue to inspire others to remain steadfast, prioritize your mental health, advocate for yourself and others by using your voice, and never be afraid of what the future holds, even if it feels uncertain.”

In a separate statement on Monday, the Miss USA Organization said, “We respect and support former Miss USA Noelia Voigt’s decision to step down from her duties. The well-being of our titleholders is a top priority, and we understand her need to prioritize herself at this time. The organization is currently reviewing plans for the transition of responsibilities to a successor and an announcement regarding the crowning of the new Miss USA will be coming soon.”

Savannah Gankiewicz, who represented Hawaii in the 2023 Miss USA competition, finished in second place at that pageant, though it has yet to be confirmed whether she will be Voigt’s successor. Last year’s final five contestants also included Miss Wisconsin Alexis Loomans (third place), Miss Pennsylvania Jasmine Daniels (fourth place) and Miss Texas Lluvia Alzate (fifth place).

After first competing in Alabama pageants, Voigt later moved to Utah, the state she represented during her Miss USA victory. She later reached the Top 20 at November’s Miss Universe pageant, where Nicaragua’s Sheynnis Cornejo was crowned the winner.

Best of TVLine

Get more from TVLine.com: Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Newsletter