Earlier this week, Williams appeared on The Tamron Hall Show. During her interview, Williams expressed that her secret to looking young and vibrant at the age of 60 was “gratitude.” She expressed how she was grateful for her life, friends, family, a successful career and to accomplish her wildest dreams. In addition, she was happy that she was able to overcome obstacles that could’ve knocked her down.

“I am in the most thankful place that I am in my life I think,” the New York native told Hall. “because  I look at what I dreamed about. You know, at 20 years old when I became famous and I had no idea what was in store for me, some was rough, some was amazing. But the fact that I got a chance to survive it all and go through the ups and downs and be supported by people, by family and live out my dreams, that’s what gives me solace.”

The pageant queen’s life changed when she made history as the first Black woman to win the Miss America pageant in 1984. This accolade gave a new meaning to pageantry U.S. for young black girls across the nation. Unfortunately, her time holding the title was short-lived. Unbeknownst to Williams at the time, 10 months into her being crowned, a photographer sold nude photos of Williams that shot taken before she ever won the pageant, to Penthouse magazine.

According to Atlanta Black Star, the Miss America executive committee agreed it was in the organization’s best interest for Williams, who was just 21 years old at the time, to step down instead of fulfilling her 12-month term. “It didn’t happen overnight. It was many years of struggle… and sticking to who I was,” she said about the difficult experience.

Williams went on to have a very successful career as an actress, singer, producer, and more. Thirty years later, the pageant circuit invited Williams to be a judge for that year’s pageant to which she accepted. Not only was she being recognized for her significant role in Miss America’s history, but she also received an apology from former Miss America CEO Sam Haskell for how things went during her reign.

“I have been a close friend to this beautiful and talented lady for 32 years. You have lived your life in grace and dignity, and never was it more evident than during the events of 1984 when you resigned,” Haskell told Williams. “Though none of us currently in the organization were involved then, on behalf of today’s organization, I want to apologize to you and to your mother, Miss Helen Williams. I want to apologize for anything that was said or done that made you feel any less than the Miss America you are and the Miss America you always will be.”

Living her best life at 60 years old, Williams is still booked and busy as she’s currently a judge on Paramount+’s Queen of the Universe. Watch the clip of Williams on The Tamron Hall Show below: