Turmoil in the beauty pageant world in 2025: Miss Universe embroiled in scandal.
2025 saw chaos at major beauty pageants, with the owner of Miss Universe facing legal troubles and new queens confronting intense criticism.
A turbulent year for beauty pageants.
2025 marks a turbulent period for major beauty pageants worldwide. While long-standing competitions like Miss Universe and Miss Grand International are mired in controversies ranging from organizers to contestants, Miss World and Miss International have emerged as bright spots, maintaining their prestige and receiving public support.
Storms at prestigious arenas
The most anticipated competitions are often the most controversial, significantly impacting the image and values that these platforms have built.
Miss Universe and the scandal from the top
Considered the most prestigious beauty pageant on the planet, Miss Universe has experienced one of the most tumultuous editions in its history. Since being transferred to new ownership, the competition has faced a series of crises. Her predecessor, Anne Jakrajutatip, was ordered arrested by a Thai court on charges of financial fraud. The current owner, Mexican businessman Raul Rocha, is also being prosecuted by the Mexican Attorney General's Office (FGR) in connection with arms trafficking and organized crime.
Against this backdrop, the victory of Mexican beauty Fatima Bosch sparked a wave of outrage. Composer Omar Harfouch, a judge who later resigned, publicly accused Raul Rocha of having business dealings with the new Miss Universe's father and presented evidence suggesting the results were rigged. Fatima Bosch herself stated that she received numerous death threats after her coronation, foreshadowing a turbulent reign.
Miss Grand International and the wave of controversy
The Miss Grand International 2025 pageant was equally controversial. Emma Tiglao from the Philippines was crowned at the age of 30. However, just one day after her victory, she faced harsh criticism from her own country's audience. This stemmed from her political views while working as an MC, which were deemed divisive and incompatible with the pageant's message of peace.
In addition, the organization under the direction of Mr. Nawat Itsaragrisil was also criticized for showing signs of favoritism towards the host country's representative, Thailand. Many other contestants also spoke out about unfair treatment throughout the competition.
Miss Earth and its decline in quality.
As one of the Big 6 pageants, Miss Earth continues to disappoint in terms of organization, despite this being its 25th anniversary. The competition has been criticized for being rudimentary, unprofessional, and lacking the necessary support for the new queen after her coronation. In recent years, the appeal of Miss Earth has declined, resulting in lackluster reigns for its queens, a prime example being Miss Earth 2024 Jessica Lane.
The rare bright spots of the year
In contrast to the bleak picture above, Miss World and Miss International have delivered results that have pleased beauty pageant fans worldwide.
Miss World: An inspiring victory
Thai beauty Suchata Chuangsri was crowned Miss World 2025 with overwhelming public support. She not only made history as the first Thai woman to win this prestigious title but also inspired many with her personal story.
Suchata Chuangsri was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 16 and bravely overcame it. After conquering the disease, she actively participated in charitable activities, especially raising awareness about the disease. Previously, she relinquished her title as 3rd Runner-up Miss Universe Thailand 2024 to pursue her dream of Miss World, a decision that many admired.
Miss International: Upholding Core Values
The Miss International 2025 competition was also highly praised for its transparency. Colombian beauty Catalina Duque was crowned the winner, bringing home the fourth crown for her country.
Miss International has always remained true to its principles of celebrating compassion, understanding, and harmonious beauty, while avoiding scandals. Although once considered boring, this year's competition has seen many innovations in its organization and has received positive feedback, affirming its position as one of the most prestigious beauty pageants in the world.
