*When Vanessa Williams became the first Black woman crowned Miss America in 1984 at age 20, she gained national attention.
While many praised her as a role model and celebrated her historic win, she also faced a barrage of racist comments and death threats. Williams, now 61, recalls talk show host Johnny Carson mocking her achievement.
“When I had just won, one of my first appearances was in New York City, and I was staying at The Plaza,” Williams tells PEOPLE.
“I remember turning on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, and his opening monologue was, ‘Did you hear we have the first Black Miss America? Yeah. They didn’t mention that Mr. T was one of the judges,'” recalls Williams. “I was like, ‘Wow, that’s telling.'”
Williams feels that Carson was implying that “there had to be one Black judge in order for me to win.”
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“That’s just me as a twenty-year-old, realizing, ‘Oh, there is some stuff that’s still racist and prejudiced and tinged with attitude and judgment.'”
The actress and singer also recalled receiving a call from President Reagan at the time, who called her win “a great thing for our country.”
“I burst into tears when I met Lena Horne because she was an idol,” Williams said.
“I performed with Ray Charles on the USS. Being on The Love Boat was fun,” she added. “It was a tremendous year. As terrifying as it was, it was incredible.”
Meanwhile, we reported earlier that Williams has formed a recording label, Mellian Music set up her first publishing entities, and signed a joint venture agreement with Mod Squad, LLC, which is distributed by GoDigiPath, LLC, in association with ADA Worldwide, Warner Music Group’s independent label and artist services arm.
“What a joy it is to be making new music behind the mike again with old friends,” Williams said in a statement. “There’s a certain comfort in creating new works in the studio while reminiscing about how so many years in this business have brought successes, excitement, and lasting memories. Always moving forward is what drives me. Every challenge is exciting. And more new music to share with my fans is the fuel that lights my fire.”
Cat Kreidich, President of ADA Worldwide, added, “A true multi-hyphenate and savvy businesswoman, there’s not much Vanessa can’t do. We’re looking forward to supporting this exciting next chapter of her career, connecting her with fans who are eagerly awaiting her return to music, and introducing a whole new generation to the magic that is Vanessa Williams.”
READ MORE FROM EURWEB.COM: Vanessa Williams Launches Own Label, First Album in 15 Years! – Releases First Single ‘Legs (Keep on Dancing’ | WATCH
