Vanessa Williams, the first Black woman to be crowned Miss America, recently opened up about the racial prejudices she faced following her historic win. In an exclusive cover story for PEOPLE magazine, Williams shared her experiences of backlash and criticism, including a particularly hurtful comment made by the late TV personality Johnny Carson.
The Historic Win and Subsequent Backlash
In 1983, Vanessa Williams made history as the first Black woman to win the Miss America title. Despite this monumental achievement, Williams faced significant backlash and racial prejudices. One of the most jarring moments for her came shortly after her win, during an appearance in New York City.
Johnny Carson’s Insensitive Remark
Williams recalled watching “The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson” during her stay at The Plaza. Carson’s comment, “Did you hear we have the first Black Miss America? Yeah. They didn’t mention that Mr. T was one of the judges,” suggested that her win was influenced by the presence of a Black judge. This remark was a stark reminder to the young Williams of the racial prejudices still prevalent in society.
Realizing the Depth of Racial Prejudices
Reflecting on this experience, Williams told PEOPLE, “That’s just me as a twenty-year-old, realizing, ‘Oh, there is some stuff that’s still racist and prejudiced and tinged with attitude and judgment.'” This realization was a poignant moment for Williams, highlighting the challenges she faced despite her groundbreaking achievement.
Controversies During Her Reign
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Williams’ reign as Miss America was not without additional controversies. She was forced to relinquish her crown after unauthorized publication of explicit photos. Despite these challenges, Williams looks back on her time as Miss America fondly. The experience opened numerous opportunities for her, allowing her to meet her idols and perform across the country.
Memorable Moments and Opportunities
Williams recounted memorable moments such as President Ronald Reagan contacting her and calling her “a great thing for our country.” She also cherished meeting singer and actress Lena Horne, a moment that brought her to tears. Performing with Ray Charles on the USS and appearing on “The Love Boat” were other highlights of her reign.
Success in Acting and Singing
Williams transitioned successfully into acting and singing, earning multiple Grammy nominations and gaining acclaim for her roles in television. She is well-known for her performances as Wilhelmina Slater in ABC’s “Ugly Betty” and Renee Perry in “Desperate Housewives.”
Conclusion
Vanessa Williams’ journey from being the first Black Miss America to a successful actress and singer is a testament to her resilience and talent. Despite facing significant racial prejudices and controversies, she has emerged as an inspiring figure in the entertainment industry. Her story serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by pioneers and the progress still needed in overcoming racial prejudices.
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