Famous Faces Who Started as Miss Universe Hopefuls

The allure of the Miss Universe stage has attracted women from across the globe, all aiming for one of the most revered crowns in the pageantry world. Not only is it a platform for beauty, but it's also a launchpad for aspiring Hollywood and reality TV stars.

Through its rich history, many contestants have leveraged the exposure to carve out impressive careers in the entertainment industry, even if they didn't secure the crown. Here are some notable figures who took their first steps toward fame on the Miss Universe stage.

1993: Kenya Moore Steps into the Spotlight

Representing Michigan, Kenya Moore clinched the Miss USA title in 1993, becoming the second Black woman to achieve this honor. At the Miss Universe contest, she finished in the top six, with the title going to Dayanara Torres from Puerto Rico. After handing over her Miss USA duties, Moore's TV career took off with appearances on shows such as 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air' and 'Living Single'. Her reality TV fame soared as a key figure on 'The Real Housewives of Atlanta,' among other shows.

1996: Ali Landry's Pageant to Popularity Path

Ali Landry, who won both Miss Louisiana and Miss USA titles in 1996, made her mark at that year's Miss Universe pageant by securing a top-six finish. Although she didn't win, the exposure helped launch her into acting, notably in a memorable Doritos commercial during the 1999 Super Bowl, and later on the TV series 'EVE'.

2004: Gal Gadot's Journey from Miss Israel to Hollywood

Crowned Miss Israel in 2004, Gal Gadot competed in the Miss Universe pageant the same year but failed to place in the top 10. However, the experience didn't hinder her future; she later joined the Israel Defense Forces and transitioned to acting. Gadot gained international fame as Gisele in 'Fast & Furious' (2009) and secured her legacy with the role of Wonder Woman in DC films.

2008: Crystle Stewart's Path from Pageantry to Television

Winning Miss USA while representing Texas in 2008, Crystle Stewart reached the top 10 in that year's Miss Universe competition. Although her evening gown stumble was memorable, she transitioned successfully into an acting career, most recognizably in 'For Better or Worse'. Of note, she later returned to the pageant scene as Miss USA president before stepping down amid controversy.

2012: Olivia Culpo's Rapid Rise

Olivia Culpo broke a 15-year drought for the United States by winning the Miss Universe title in 2012, having already secured the Miss Rhode Island and Miss USA crowns. Post-pageantry, Culpo branched into acting and reality TV, and has become an influential social media personality with millions of followers.

2018: Catriona Gray Shines on Global Stage

Catriona Gray, after competing at Miss World and attaining a top-five finish in 2016, brought the Miss Universe title to the Philippines in 2018. Known for her iconic 'lava walk,' she shifted into hosting and performing, emphasizing her versatility and charismatic appeal.

2019: Cheslie Kryst's Historic Pageant Presence

As Miss USA 2019, Cheslie Kryst secured a top 10 finish at Miss Universe. Alongside Zozibini Tunzi, she was part of a historic year where all major pageant titles were held by women of color. Kryst's professional trajectory included a legal career alongside hosting duties, marked by numerous accolades.

2023: Noelia Voigt Stirs Media Waves

Crowned Miss USA 2023, Noelia Voigt represented Utah and secured a top 20 spot at the Miss Universe pageant. Her tenure as Miss USA was marked by controversy, leading to her unexpected resignation in 2024, which sparked widespread media coverage.