Milla Magee, a 24-year-old lifeguard from Newquay, Cornwall, and the reigning Miss England, left the pageant midway through the event held in Hyderabad. In an interview with The Sun, she claimed that she felt objectified and was pressured to entertain wealthy male sponsors, stating she was made to feel "like a prostitute".
Magee criticized the pageant as outdated, asserting that it prioritized appearance over substance, despite its "beauty with a purpose" slogan. She expressed disappointment over the lack of genuine change within the Miss World organization, highlighting superficial treatment and a lack of respect towards contestants.
In response, Julia Morley, Chairman and CEO of the Miss World Organization, denied the allegations, stating that Magee's claims were unfounded and inconsistent with her experience during the competition. Morley emphasized that the organization does not condone any form of exploitation.
Following Magee's departure, Charlotte Grant, the first runner-up of Miss England, has stepped in to represent England in the Miss World 2025 finals.
Magee's withdrawal marks the first time in the 74-year history of the Miss World pageant that a contestant has exited under such circumstances, sparking global discussions about the relevance and ethics of international beauty pageants.
Miss World organisation refutes media claims over Miss England 2025’s withdrawal
The Miss World Organisation has strongly refuted recent reports concerning Miss England 2025, Milla Maggie, and her withdrawal from the ongoing 72nd Miss World Festival in India.
Julia Morley CBE, Chairwoman and CEO of the Miss World Organisation, issued an official statement addressing the situation.
According to Morley, Milla Maggie withdrew from the competition earlier this month due to a reported family emergency involving her mother’s health. Showing compassion and understanding, Morley promptly arranged for Milla’s return to England, placing the contestant’s family needs above all else.
To counter misinformation, the Organisation is releasing unedited video footage recorded during Milla’s stay in India. In the videos, Milla is seen expressing gratitude, joy, and appreciation for her experience at the Festival — sentiments that stand in direct contradiction to the negative reports.
KTR demands thorough probe into Milla Magee’s allegations
BRS Working President K T Rama Rao (KTR) called for an impartial and thorough investigation into the allegations of harassment made by Miss England, Milla Magee, during her visit to Telangana.
In a statement here on Sunday, he expressed deep anguish over the incident. KTR emphasised that such acts are unacceptable on Telangana soil, which has a rich tradition of respecting and revering women. "As a father to a daughter, I sincerely hope that no woman has to endure such trauma," he said, extending heartfelt apologies to Milla Magee on behalf of the people of Telangana.
KTR asserted that the incident does not reflect the true spirit of Telangana and is completely contrary to the values upheld by its citizens. He highlighted Telangana’s longstanding tradition of empowering women, drawing inspiration from legendary female figures like Rani Rudrama Devi and Chityala Ailamma.
Commending Milla Magee for her courage in speaking out on an international platform like Miss World, KTR praised her strength and hoped for her swift emotional recovery from the ordeal.
He also strongly condemned what he described as the government's tendency to blame the victim rather than take the allegations seriously. KTR reiterated his demand for a comprehensive inquiry and strict action against those responsible.
