The recent Miss Universe pageant has been marred by controversies even after Mexico’s Fátima Bosch Fernández was crowned the winner. Issues such as bullying, hospitalization, and allegations of vote rigging have plagued the competition. Miss Universe Haiti, Melissa Queenie Sapini, expressed concerns about the “deeply wrong” occurrences behind the scenes in a media statement.
Fresh controversies continued to surface post the 2025 Miss Universe pageant in Bangkok, where numerous incidents unfolded, including a Thai organizer’s rebuke of Bosch, judges dropping out over vote rigging suspicions, a fake drug scandal, and a contestant falling off the stage.
The unfolding drama has raised questions about the future of the Miss Universe pageant and its relevance in today’s society. Despite ongoing debates about the significance of beauty pageants, the level of attention and viewership remains high. Following the winner announcement, several contestants have renounced their titles, including Miss Jamaica, Gabrielle Henry, who remains hospitalized after her fall.
Adding to the turmoil, arrest warrants have been issued for two co-owners of the pageant in Thailand and Mexico. Miss Universe Organization President, Raul Rocha, has also expressed his frustration and intention to sell his stake amidst the controversies.
The Miss Universe Organization cited record-breaking viewership this year, with NBC and Telemundo broadcasting setting new viewership records. However, the negative publicity surrounding the pageant, including contestants renouncing titles and speaking out against the competition, has raised concerns about its future.
The ongoing scandals have prompted contestants like Miss Côte d’Ivoire and Miss Estonia to step down, citing values misalignment and lack of transparency. The Miss Universe Organization faces mounting criticism, with former officials and contestants raising serious allegations of misconduct, favoritism, and unfair practices.
The controversies have escalated with arrest warrants issued for co-owners and investigations into alleged criminal activities. Despite the chaos, there is speculation about potential reforms within the organization to address the concerns raised by participants and stakeholders.
