American Trailblazers in Miss Universe History

As the countdown begins for the most prestigious night in beauty pageantry, contestants worldwide prepare to dazzle on stage.

This week in Thailand, 120 hopefuls will vie for the title at the annual Miss Universe competition, which US viewers can watch on Peacock.

Representing the United States is Audrey Eckert from Nebraska, who clinched Miss USA 2025 amidst significant changes in the organization's leadership.

The last American to win Miss Universe was R'Bonney Gabriel in 2022, ending a decade-long dry spell for the US.

As we approach the new festivities, let’s reflect on the illustrious history of nine American women who have captured the Miss Universe crown.

1954: Miriam Stevenson

In 1954, Miriam Stevenson etched her name in history as the first American Miss Universe. She outshone Miss Brazil, Martha Rocha, after the judges decided her physique was more fitting, as per Telemundo.

While attending Lander College, now Lander University, she began her pageant journey representing South Carolina.

Post her crowning moment, Stevenson completed her education and stepped into a career in television. She later met her spouse, Donald Upton, through her professional endeavors. They have two children.

1956: Carol Morris

Carol Morris soared to victory in the Miss USA pageant, representing Iowa, and then conquered the Miss Universe stage.

At just 20, she was pursuing elementary education at Drake University when the pageant success beckoned her.

Following her acting stint in a notable TV episode, she retired from the limelight post-marriage and focused on family life with her four children.

To date, she remains Iowa's sole victor in both competitions.

1960: Linda Bement

In 1960, Linda Bement from Utah took the Miss Universe crown, becoming the first winner televised live, which expanded the pageant's global reach. Bement, who passed away in 2018, later guided aspiring beauty queens.

She had two children with her ex-husband, Manuel Ycaza, and enjoyed a large family, including numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

1967: Sylvia Hitchcock

A Miami native, yet hailing from Alabama for her pageant pursuits, Sylvia Hitchcock claimed the Miss Universe title in 1967.

After winning, she dabbled in modeling and film but did not complete her academic studies.

Hitchcock took on a judging role for the pageant in 1972 and led a full family life until her passing in 2015.

1980: Shawn Weatherly

Shawn Weatherly made South Carolina proud again by winning the Miss Universe crown in 1980.

Post-pageant, she found her stride in Hollywood, taking roles in series like "Police Academy" and "Baywatch."

Despite her success in the ‘90s, she hasn’t appeared in on-screen roles since her part in a 2014 film.

1995: Chelsi Smith

Chelsi Smith became the first Texan to triumph in Miss Universe in 1995, also marking a milestone as the third African American to win Miss USA and the first in Texas.

Her journey led her to Los Angeles, where she pursued entertainment professionally, even venturing into music with a record deal.

Smith's legacy endures, despite her untimely passing in 2018, with the Miss Congeniality award now honoring her memory.

1997: Brook Lee

Brook Lee, native Hawaiian, set records with her 1997 Miss Universe win as the oldest contestant to do so at 26.

She made appearances on shows like "The Nanny" and "Boy Meets World," later taking on roles in hosting for various networks.

Lee also produced her own content, showcasing her diverse talents.

2012: Olivia Culpo

Olivia Culpo burst onto the pageant scene in 2012, quickly ascending from Miss Rhode Island USA to Miss Universe.

Post-crowning, she transitioned into acting, sharing the screen with the likes of Cameron Diaz and Amy Schumer.

Culpo harnessed her fame into a thriving influencer career, further seen in her family's reality show.

2022: R'Bonney Gabriel

R'Bonney Gabriel, a trailblazer from Texas, brought home the Miss Universe title in 2023.

With roots as a fashion designer, she became the first Filipino American to win, despite facing controversy with unfounded rigging allegations.

Her victory echoed resilience, and the Miss Universe organization later confirmed no wrongdoing post-investigation, separating from the then-Miss USA president involved in the claims.