The Chaos Surrounding Miss Universe 2025: What You Need to Know

Even though the grand finale of Miss Universe 2025 is still days away, the world-renowned beauty pageant is already embroiled in controversy.

Disputes erupted when a director seemingly insulted Miss Mexico as 'foolish,' leading to walkouts by participants. Additionally, Miss Chile found herself apologizing after a controversial TikTok user video.

Scandal Strikes Repeatedly

Known as the world's biggest beauty pageant, Miss Universe is no stranger to controversy and this year's event is no exception. Having barely recuperated from past debacles, the organization faces renewed criticism due to recent events.

After a tumultuous year marked by Instagram live antics from ex-CEO Anne Jakrajutatip, recent disruptions include leadership upheavals and the questionable conduct of a director.

Noelia Voigt of Miss USA 2023 captured the exasperation of many in the pageant community, expressing in an Instagram post how the ongoing controversies have been burdensome.

Leadership Shifts at Miss Universe

In an unexpected turn just before this year's pageant, the Miss Universe Organization revealed Mario Búcaro as the new CEO. Previously a diplomat, Búcaro takes over from Jakrajutatip, who stepped down in mid-2025.

Financial troubles at JKN Global Group, including loan defaults and SEC allegations, accompanied Jakrajutatip's departure, which was publicly attributed to a focus on family. Her silence on these matters continues.

Confrontation Leads to Protest

During a recent gathering of contestants, Nawat Itsaragrisil, the new director of Miss Universe Thailand, sharply criticized Miss Mexico, Fátima Bosch, for missing a promotional event.

The heated exchange, broadcast live, contained remarks perceived as derogatory, leading to multiple contestants leaving the room in solidarity with Bosch, who remained determined to compete.

Support from Former Winners

Reacting to the incident, Victoria Kjær Theilvig, Miss Universe 2024, and other former titleholders expressed their support for Bosch, emphasizing the need for dignity and respect within the pageant.

Former pageant leaders and participants decried the compromising of core Miss Universe values, with Bosch staying adamant in the competition.

Restrictions Imposed on Director

Raul Rocha, now president of Miss Universe, responded firmly by limiting Itsaragrisil's presence during the events to uphold the dignity of participants. Rocha criticized the director's actions and emphasized that the delegates are who should take center stage.

A Tearful Apology

Following the backlash, Itsargrisil issued a tearful apology acknowledging his missteps, noting the emotional toll this incident has taken.

Racism Controversy with a Former Winner

Former Miss Universe Alicia Machado stirred up additional controversy with racially charged remarks during a live discussion, mischaracterizing Thai heritage in a flash of insensitivity.

In response, Voigt emphasized the importance of mutual respect and condemned the hurtful statements, marking yet another narrative of tension surrounding the pageant's climate.

TikTok Controversy Involving Miss Chile

Miss Chile, Inna Moll, made the headlines after sharing a TikTok video that mimicked drug use, sparking backlash. She and her makeup artist issued apologies after realizing the video’s negative impact.

Despite rumors to the contrary, Moll continues in the competition, and both she and the organizing body declined comment.