Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · September 22, 2025 · Entertainment

Miss America's Graceful Stand Against Online Makeup Critiques

Cassie Donegan, 28, was overjoyed with her Miss America beauty pageant win, but the blonde beauty quickly faced cruel backlash from online trolls critiquing her makeup look

SCANDAL ROCKS MISS AMERICA PAGEANT: NEW TITLE WINNER CASSIE DONEGAN BREAKS SILENCE ON CRUEL ONLINE BACKLASH

The glitz and glamour of the Miss America pageant has been marred by a vicious online backlash against this year's winner, Cassie Donegan. The 28-year-old beauty queen from New York was crowned Miss America over the weekend, but her joy was short-lived as she faced a barrage of cruel comments and insults on social media.

The controversy erupted after the official Miss America account shared a video showcasing Donegan's stage makeup, with some online trolls mocking her choice of concealer. The vicious comments flooded Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, with users ridiculing Donegan's appearance and even suggesting that the first runner-up, Sadie Schiermeyer from Texas, was robbed of the title.

Donegan said she respects others' opinions but that does not mean she wants negative comments about her appearance

But in a shocking move, Donegan has refused to let the negativity bring her down. Speaking exclusively to FOX News, she revealed that she respects the opinions of her critics, saying, "When something big like this happens, there's going to be many opinions. Everyone has the right to their own opinion in such a big public forum like the internet."

However, Donegan was quick to point out that just because she respects others' opinions doesn't mean she wants negative comments about her appearance. "People have the right to their opinion to be able to share that," she said, "but it doesn't mean I want them to attack me personally."

Despite the backlash, Donegan remains focused on her goals and aspirations. The singer and actress is using her platform to inspire young girls across the country, saying, "I want them to believe in themselves, because if they don’t, no one else will. Empowerment really comes from within."

The beauty queen acknowledges that 'people have the right to their opinion to be able to share that, and no one's going to be everyone's favorite all of the time'

Donegan's message of self-empowerment resonates deeply with many, particularly given her own experiences as a contestant on the Miss America pageant. The beauty queen has been open about her struggles with body image and self-doubt, but she says that competing in the pageant has helped her to overcome these issues.

"I think that no one has the right to tell you what you can do with your own body," Donegan said during her rapid-answer round. "This is your vessel, and you should be able to walk around proudly in it."

As part of her prize, Donegan won a $50,000 tuition scholarship, which she plans to use to further her education and pursue her passions. The beauty queen has already made waves on the Miss America stage with her powerful performances and inspiring speeches.

Donegan is redirecting her attention to being a role model for younger girls, her goal is to uplift and motivate others

Donegan's victory marks a significant milestone for women across the country, particularly given the pageant's rich history of empowering and supporting ambitious women. As one of the most prestigious beauty pageants in the world, Miss America has long been a springboard for talented women to turn their dreams into reality.

For Donegan, being crowned Miss America is not just a personal achievement but also a testament to her hard work and dedication. The beauty queen says that she is grateful for the opportunity to serve as a role model for young girls across the country and hopes to inspire them to pursue their own passions and goals.

"I want even a small part of me to bring that spark out of them," Donegan said, her eyes shining with determination. "If they can do it, so can I."

Donegan shared: 'I want them to believe in themselves, because if they don¿t, no one else will. Empowerment really comes from within'

As the controversy surrounding her online backlash continues to unfold, Donegan remains steadfast in her commitment to empowering young girls everywhere. With her inspiring message and unwavering confidence, she is set to make a lasting impact on the world of beauty pageants and beyond.

Sources:

  • FOX News
  • The Scholarly Note (thescholarlynote.com)

Donegan beat over 52 women representing all 50 states in the weekend's competition, she won a $50,000 tuition scholarship as part of her prize

She was crowned by the previous winner, Abbie Stockard from Alabama, and spoke about the importance of being true to yourself