Pageant News Bureau

A very sensitive subject

The recent alleged attempt to blackmail Miss New Jersey has exposed a problem that the pageant world has long preferred to sweep under the rug. Beauty queens, former queens and pageant directors have in some cases shared their stories of blackmail with us. Many reminded us of old rumors, mostly impossible to verify.

We considered taking a PNB poll, but decided that a full-fledged investigative article would be more meaningful. But we need your help.

Due to te sensitivity of the subject matter, we are asking all sources to participate anonymously, and no actual names or identifying details will be disclosed. If you participate, this fact will never be confirmed by us, even if you should reveal it. And you will not be quoted.

Tell us what you know about this subject. Here are a few questions that are not meant as a survey but to show you what we are trying to find out.

Have you been blackmailed?
Do you know someone who has?
Did it involve photographs?
Did it involve true information?
Did it involve false information?
Was it sexual in nature?
Did it involve substance abuse?
What was demanded of you?
Did you (or the other person) cooperate?
Did you refuse?
Did you ignore the attempt?
What was the outcome?
Did you contact authorities?
Was the blackmailer (if known) a rival queen, a pageant director, a fan or someone else?
Have you been accused of blackmail?