Marilu Henner, the 58-year-old American actress best known for her roles on the sitcoms 'Taxi' and 'Evening Shade', has been chosen as a judge for the forthcoming 'Miss America' contest in Las Vegas, reports the Associated Press.
The panel was announced on yesterday's episode of 'The View', and will see Henner joined by a selection of stars from the world of fashion, television, and music. MARC CHERRY, the creator of hit show 'Desperate Housewives' will also judge the contest, as will the country singer MARK WILLIS. Shoe designer TARYN ROSE, and Dancing With The Stars choreographer TONY DOVOLANI will also head to the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino on January 15th 2011 to judge the annual pageant. Comedienne and writer Joy Behar has been named as 'head judge' for the contest, and the the panel will be assessing the hopefuls in four main categories, 'swimsuit', 'evening gown', 'talent', and 'interview'.
Last year's beauty pageant was won by CARESSA CAMERON from Fredericksburg, making her the third 'Miss Virginia' to win the title. She fought off competition from 'Miss California' KRISTY CAVINDER, who finished as runner-up.