Mexico City, November 16, 2024 – The 73rd edition of the Miss Universe pageant culminated in a grand spectacle at the Arena CDMX, marking a significant milestone in the pageant’s illustrious history. This year’s event was notable not only for its return to Mexico after 17 years but also for its record-breaking participation and progressive inclusivity.
Event Overview
The Miss Universe 2024 pageant commenced with preliminary competitions on November 14, featuring the National Costume and Swimwear rounds. These events showcased the rich cultural heritage and individual elegance of the contestants, setting the stage for the grand finale on November 16.
The final event was hosted by Mario Lopez and former Miss Universe Olivia Culpo, with commentary from Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray and Zuri Hall. The evening was further enlivened by performances from renowned artists, including Robin Thicke, Emilio Estefan, and Taboo, adding a vibrant musical dimension to the proceedings.
Historic Participation
This year’s pageant saw an unprecedented 130 contestants from around the globe, surpassing the previous record of 94 entrants set in 2018. Notably, several countries made their debut, including Belarus, Eritrea, Guinea, Iran, Macau, Maldives, Moldova, North Macedonia, Somalia, United Arab Emirates, and Uzbekistan. Additionally, nations such as Armenia, Bangladesh, Belize, and China returned to the competition after periods of absence, reflecting the pageant’s expanding global reach and appeal.
Inclusivity and Diversity
In a landmark move, the Miss Universe Organization removed the upper age limit for contestants, allowing women over the age of 28 to participate. This change was exemplified by the participation of Beatrice Njoya from Malta, a 40-year-old mother of three, who became the oldest contestant in the pageant’s history. Her involvement highlighted the evolving standards of beauty and the organization’s commitment to inclusivity.
Another inspiring participant was Logina Salah from Egypt, a 34-year-old model living with vitiligo and lupus. Her presence on the Miss Universe stage served as a powerful statement on embracing diversity and redefining beauty standards.
Cultural Celebrations
The National Costume segment was a highlight of the pageant, with contestants donning elaborate outfits that paid homage to their respective cultures. Miss Jamaica, Rachel Silvera, honored dancehall pioneers with her national costume, while other contestants showcased traditional attire that celebrated their heritage. This segment not only added visual splendor to the event but also fostered a deeper appreciation of global cultures among the audience.
Controversies and Challenges
The pageant was not without its challenges. Italy Mora from Panama was expelled from the competition for allegedly violating rules by making an unauthorized visit to her boyfriend’s hotel room. This incident underscored the strict protocols governing contestant conduct and the importance of adherence to established guidelines.
Crowning the New Miss Universe
The climax of the evening was the crowning of the new Miss Universe. Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua, who held the title in 2023, gracefully passed on the crown to her successor. The new Miss Universe was adorned with the “Lumière de l’Infini” crown, a masterpiece crafted by Jewelmer, featuring diamonds and 23 golden South Sea pearls. This crown, created over two years by Filipino artisans, symbolized the light of infinity and added a touch of elegance to the coronation ceremony.
Broadcast and Global Reach
The event was broadcast live on The Roku Channel and Telemundo, with free streaming available online, ensuring that audiences worldwide could partake in the festivities. The widespread accessibility of the broadcast highlighted the pageant’s global appeal and its role in uniting diverse cultures through the celebration of beauty and talent.
Looking Ahead
As the newly crowned Miss Universe embarks on her journey, she carries the responsibility of representing not only her country but also the values of the Miss Universe Organization. Her reign is anticipated to focus on advocacy, cultural exchange, and the promotion of inclusivity, reflecting the evolving ethos of the pageant.
The success of Miss Universe 2024 in Mexico City sets a high standard for future editions, emphasizing the importance of diversity, cultural appreciation, and the celebration of womanhood in all its forms.
Note: The specific name of the newly crowned Miss Universe has not been provided in the available information