Miss North Carolina USA for 2026 has been stripped of her title after a reported conduct issue.
The Miss USA Organization announced that less than two months after receiving the Miss North Carolina USA crown, Brittany Boltinhouse would no longer hold the title as of Wednesday, Aug. 5. The decision is reportedly due to conduct that did not align with the organization.
"Today, Brittany Boltinhouse’s reign as Miss North Carolina USA 2026 came to an end. The decision was made together with her, her state directors, and in consultation with the Miss USA Organization," read a statement from Miss USA Chairman Thom Brodeur on his Instagram account.
Brodeur and A Blaize Productions, which holds the state license for the Miss North Carolina USA pageant,
did not state specifically what the issue was.
"What was brought to us was not a single moment. It reflected conduct over an extended period of time. That is why this outcome was reached, and I stand behind it without qualification," Brodeur said.
Later in his statement, Brodeur mentioned that the organization does not "tolerate racism, homophobia, transphobia nor language that strips any person of their dignity – whoever they are."
Has Brittany Boltinhouse commented on her Miss North Carolina USA title being taken away?
No, not yet.
Brodeur said Boltinhouse "will soon issue her own statement."
"I have seen Brittany's statement. There is ownership, accountability and apology. I respect that," he said. "While it does not undo the harm, and it does not change the outcome, it is the beginning of the only thing that ever repairs harm, which is change."
Who is Brittany Boltinhouse?
Boltinhouse, 27, was originally crowned Miss North Carolina USA on June 28 and was Miss Wilmington before that, read her bio on A Blaize Productions' website before it was removed on Aug. 6.
According to USA TODAY, in an interview with The Pageant Project Podcast, she stated she was an entrepreneur and owns two flooring and turf companies.
She is a resident of Duplin County.
Who is now Miss North Carolina USA 2026?
Myla Hadley, who was the original runner-up, will take over the title of Miss North Carolina USA.
USA TODAY contributed to this report
This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Miss North Carolina USA switch up after 2026 winner stripped of title
