The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) announced in a statement Monday that it will continue to run the Miss USA pageant despite the loss of NBC and Univision, the two networks that gave the popular beauty contest a home.
In the statement, the organization also expressed its dismay in the recent turn of events but stated that "the show will go on."
Though the MUO decided not to pull the plug on the pageant, which is set to commence on July 12 in Baton Rouge, La., it now faces running the show without a network to air on.
Along with the announcement the organization, also made an attempt to sever its attachment to the anti-immigration comments made by Trump during his presidential bid earlier this month saying, "the Miss Universe Organization is built on a foundation of inclusion and continues to be a celebration of diversity and of all cultures."
The statement also mentioned that this year's Miss USA pageant featured women from various backgrounds, four of whom are of "Mexican descent."According to "Entertainment Tonight," the consequences of Trump's remarks have been tumultuous. Univision programs have severed their relationship with the contest along with actors and personalities. Actress Roselyn Sanchez retracted her participation in co-hosting the Spanish-language airing of the show.
The pageant's sponsorship also took a blow.
The full MUO statement reads:
The 2015 MISS USA Pageant will still take place in Baton Rouge on July 12th. We are disheartened by recent events but the show will go on.
The Miss Universe Organization operates as an independent company. In its 64 year history, and under many owners, Miss Universe has developed into a globally recognized brand, with nearly 150 franchise holders domestically and internationally, the majority of whom are small business owners.
The Miss Universe Organization is built on a foundation of inclusion and continues to be a celebration of diversity and of all cultures. This year's Miss USA contestants represent many different ethnic backgrounds, including six Latinas (four of whom are of Mexican descent).
Annually, nearly ten thousand young women all around the world participate in MISS UNIVERSE pageant events. We continue to welcome those from all backgrounds to enter our system. Our franchisees work tirelessly every day to empower young women to be confident and to be their personal best while raising awareness and millions of dollars for philanthropic endeavors.