A new era of beauty has dawned in Mexico City. Victoria Kajer of Denmark has been crowned Miss Universe 2024. However, the 73rd Miss Universe pageant was not without its share of drama. As the two-week spectacle unfolded, the competition was marked by a series of unexpected twists and turns. Now, as the dust settles, it's time to delve deeper into the events that unfolded. Did the pageant live up to its legacy? Or did it stumble, raising questions about its future as the pinnacle of beauty pageantry?
Introducing a new format
Miss Universe has long been a pioneer in the world of beauty pageants. Since its inception in 1952, the competition has continuously adapted to the changing times. By continuously embracing diversity, challenging stereotypes, and leveraging the power of digital platforms, Miss Universe aims to remain relevant and reflective of the evolving cultural landscape.
This year's pageant broke records with 125 delegates representing diverse nations. The competition was fierce, with only 30 contestants making it to the swimsuit round. Following the first cut, the field was narrowed down to 12 stunning finalists who gracefully showcased their elegance in the evening gown competition. From this impressive group, only five were chosen to face the ultimate challenge: the question-and-answer round. After careful deliberation, the judges crowned the new Miss Universe alongside the well-deserved runner-ups.
Pre-pageant controversies
Miss Universe Organization (MUO) owners Anne Jakrajutatip and Osmel Sousa faced backlash for their negative comments about some contestants during an Instagram live on Oct. 25. Their behavior, particularly towards Miss Lebanon, Nada Koussa, sparked controversy and led to Lebanon's withdrawal from the competition. Koussa and her team later flew to Mexico and were promised a live apology from the MUO.
Then, MUO announced the withdrawal of Miss Panama Italy Mora. The withdrawal was due to a disciplinary action taken by the organization's committee which was officially announced on Nov. 2. Commitment to integrity, diversity, and respect for all participants was emphasized. They prioritized confidentiality and requested respect for the candidate of Panama.
Challenges, left and right
The 73rd Miss Universe pageant, held from Nov. 1 to 17, faced criticism for its limited pre-pageant activities and subpar final production. Despite a record number of contestants, they were confined to their hotel rooms, relying on balcony photoshoots and TikTok videos. The final stage, while cramped and plagued by technical difficulties during introductions, still showcased the contestants' best efforts, culminating in a striking dance performance accompanied by a mariachi band.
30 contestants advanced to the semi-finals, where the swimsuit competition was held on a smaller stage with poor camera angles and lighting. 12 semi-finalists were chosen: Bolivia, Mexico, Venezuela, Argentina, Puerto Rico, Nigeria, Russia, Chile, Thailand, Denmark, Canada, and Peru. They graced the stage in designer gowns, accompanied by the controversial choice of American singer Robin Thicke in addition to reusing his song "Magic" from Miss Universe 2008 which was seen as tacky by some viewers.
The top five Miss Universe 2024 contenders had to endure a demanding round of questions and answers. When asked which was more essential, Miss Nigeria Chidimma Adetshina said that she preferred being loved or respected. Since respect cultivates both self-esteem and respect for others, she underlined the importance of respect.
Meanwhile, Miss Mexico María Fernanda Beltrán was motivated by her mother's fight with illness. Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, Miss Denmark, shared her conviction that one should learn from errors and live each day to the fullest. In her message, Miss Thailand, “Opal” Suchata Chuangsri, emphasized the value of empathy in leadership and its role in promoting unity and caring for others.
The final round challenged the top five with a poignant question: "What's your message to women watching you?" Miss Nigeria inspired hope through her journey of overcoming adversity. Miss Mexico emphasized perseverance, drawing strength from her mother's battle with cancer. Miss Thailand stressed self-confidence, while Miss Venezuela encouraged self-love and unwavering belief. Miss Denmark delivered a powerful message: "Your past doesn't define you; your choices do. Keep fighting!"
The results were as follows: Miss Venezuela was the fifth, Miss Thailand placed fourth, Miss Mexico as third, and Miss Nigeria as second. Miss Denmark, making history as the first Danish winner, claimed the coveted title.
Chelsea Manalo is Miss Universe Asia
Chelsea Manalo finished as one of the top 30 candidates of 2024. Despite not advancing to the top 12, her swimsuit performance during finals was universally applauded by not just Filipinos but international fans. Manalo surprised everyone when she showcased her signature tampisaw walk. Her exclusion from the top 12 became a buzz among fans who felt like she was robbed of a further spot.
Despite this however, Filipinos are still left with something to celebrate after MUO crowned her as the first Miss Universe Asia as one of the inaugural continental queens who together are official Miss Universe ambassadors and will be participating in activities and travels alongside Miss Universe 2024.
The 73rd Miss Universe pageant was a whirlwind of excitement, controversy, and mixed results. While Denmark’s victory marked a historic moment, the overall production and execution left much to be desired. To improve future pageants, the Miss Universe Organization should prioritize fair and objective judging, enhanced stage production, stronger contestant preparation, more pre-pageant activities, and continued commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The sooner MUO addresses these recommendations voiced by viewers, the more the organization can ensure that future pageants can deliver an exceptional experience for both fans and candidates in order to maintain their status as the number one pageant of the world—the universe rather.
