The 74th edition of Miss Universe, held in Bangkok, Thailand, concluded amidst a whirlwind of controversies and organizational turmoil. The event, which has been a global staple since its inception in 1952, faced unprecedented challenges this year, including contestant walkouts, judge resignations, and allegations of rigging. These issues have highlighted the cultural and strategic differences between the pageant’s Thai and Mexican owners, raising questions about its future direction. The pageant, traditionally a platform for women to advocate for global causes like HIV/AIDS awareness and children’s education, has also been a launchpad for international celebrity status. This year, Thailand’s Praveenar Singh emerged as a fan favorite, with hopes of becoming the country’s third Miss Universe. However, the event was overshadowed by a series of incidents that began with Thai media mogul Nawat Itsaragrasil’s public reprimand of Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch, leading to a walkout by several contestants. The Miss Universe Organisation condemned Nawat’s actions as ‘malicious,’ and international executives were brought in to oversee the competition. Further complicating matters, two judges resigned, with one accusing organizers of pre-selecting finalists. Despite these challenges, the pageant continues to evolve, transitioning from a once-a-year television spectacle to a media brand embracing social media platforms like TikTok. The leadership transition has been rocky, with former CEO Anne Jakrajutatip’s resignation and the subsequent appointment of Guatemalan diplomat Mario Bucaro. Jakrajutatip, who acquired the pageant in 2022, had made significant strides towards inclusivity, allowing transgender women, married women, and women with children to participate. However, her entertainment company JKN filed for bankruptcy in 2023, adding to the pageant’s financial woes. As the Miss Universe brand navigates these turbulent waters, former queens like Catriona Gray continue to use their platforms to promote charitable causes, underscoring the pageant’s potential for positive impact. Despite the controversies, the event remains a significant cultural phenomenon, though its future will depend on its ability to reconcile its diverse leadership and maintain its core values of empowering women.
Tears, walkouts and drama: New Miss Universe to be crowned as chaotic season ends
