31 years after scandal Vanessa Williams gets apology from Miss America

CEBU, Philippines – As some would like to say, better late than never.

More than three decades after Vanessa Williams resigned from her title as Miss America following a nude photo scandal, the actress received an apology from the CEO of the organization.

“I have been a close friend to this beautiful and talented lady for 32 years. You have lived your life with grace and dignity and never was it more evident during the events of 1984 when you resigned,” Sam Haskell shared with the audience Sunday night.

“Though none of us currently in the organization were involved in it, on behalf of today’s organization, I want to apologize for anything that was said and done to you and to your mother, Miss Helen Williams.”

He continued, “I want to apologize for anything that was said or done that made you feel any less than the Miss America that you are and Miss America you always will be.”

As the entire crowd and fellow judges including Zendaya, Amy Purdy and Danica McKellar delivered a standing ovation, Williams appeared to be deeply touched.

“Thank you Sam, so unexpected but so beautiful,” she shared. “I did the best that I could during my reign during 1983 to 1984. On behalf of my family and my mother in particular…and your leadership and integrity, I love you. I love the girls and I’m so honored.”

Just a few days ago, Williams assured fans that she still has her crown she received back in ‘83.

And while the scandal is in her rearview mirror, the singer-actress recently admitted to Robin Roberts that the heartache haunted her for a long period of time.

“It was two drastically different images. That was the issue,” she told Good Morning America. “It was Miss America who’s really kind of untouched in that reality. And then there was this woman in a picture.”