15 YEAR ANNIVERSARY: VANESSA GIVES UP MISS AMERICA CROWN
15 YEAR ANNIVERSARY: VANESSA GIVES UP MISS AMERICA CROWN
NEW YORK (Wireless Flash) -- Friday marks the 15th anniversary of the first time a Miss America surrendered her crown. It was Vanessa Williams, who was also the first black Miss America. But on July 23, 1984, she resigned her Miss America title after "Penthouse" magazine published nude photos of her wearing kinky bondage gear. Fifteen years later, "Penthouse" publisher Bob Guccione says he knew he had a hot item and he feels no guilt about publishing the photos. Guccione says he was amazed after he discovered Williams had told Miss America officials prior to accepting the crown that she had no sexy skeletons in her closet. Although he admits Williams probably won't be celebrating the 15th anniversary, he says he felt vindicated after she opened on Broadway in "Kiss Of The Spider Woman" and told a newspaper, "If it wasn't for "Penthouse," I wouldn't be here." Guccione hopes the good feelings continue and says Williams has a standing offer to pose nude in "Penthouse" anytime she wants.
CONTACT: Bob Guccione, ****; Arrange with Heather Krug; NYC; (212) 687-1765