Miss Universe Scandalized by Alleged Drug Scandals and Vote Rigging, Keeping Us Glued to the Screen

Once considered the original reality TV, beauty pageants like Miss Universe showcased women from around the globe competing in gowns, swimsuits, national costumes, and interviews, all within a three-hour broadcast. Over time, however, the pageant felt repetitive and outdated, overshadowed by modern reality shows like Selling Sunset, Love Island, The Masked Singer, and Love is Blind, which recreated similar drama with fresher energy.

Following the crowning of Miss Mexico, Ftima Bosch, the event resembled a full reality TV season, complete with confessionals, shocking moments, and intense debates about the role of women in pageants. Unlike previous years, the usual allegations of harassment and rigging were largely overshadowed by real-time controversies on stage.

Stage Accidents and Hospitalization

During the evening gown segment, Miss Jamaica, Gabrielle Henry, fell from the stage and remained hospitalized a week later. Pageant officials initially stated that she had no broken bones, attributing the incident to inattention.

Controversy with Miss Mexico

At a sashing ceremony, the Thai national pageant director confronted Bosch over supposed promotional guideline violations. Security was called as Bosch exited, but she stood her ground, stating, If it takes away your dignity, you need to go. The incident sparked widespread support, including praise from Mexicos president Claudia Sheinbaum, who emphasized that women are stronger when they speak up.

Judging and Jury Disputes

Omar Harfouch resigned from the jury, alleging a secret vote preselected the top 30 contestants. Another judge stepped down for personal reasons. These disputes highlighted tensions within the organization, adding an unexpected layer of intrigue to the competition.

Religious Tensions and Threats

This year also saw threats against contestants for religious reasons. Miss Palestine, Nadeen Ayoub, showcased Israels Dome of the Rock and Church of the Holy Sepulchre on her gown, which triggered death and harassment threats against Miss Israel, Melanie Shiraz.

Legal Troubles

Days after the coronation, Bangkok authorities issued an arrest warrant for Anne Jakkaphong Jakrajutatip, a Miss Universe co-owner, over allegations of fraud. Additionally, pageant president Ral Rocha Cant faced investigations for trafficking between Guatemala and Mexico.

Resignations and Public Statements

Olivia Yac, fourth runner-up and Miss Universe Africa and Oceania, resigned her title to uphold her personal values. She emphasized her commitment to being a positive influence, distancing herself from the pageant organization.

Ratings and Triumph

Despite controversies, Ftima Bosch emerged victorious, and the broadcast achieved its highest ratings in years. NBC reported 2.6 million viewers, making it the most-watched primetime Spanish-language entertainment special of 2025. On social media, Bosch shared a reflective moment, captioning her post, Just breathe.

With all the drama, triumph, and spectacle, Miss Universe 2025 proved it could rival any reality TV show, leaving audiences eager for what might come next.

Author: Sophia Brooks