The glamor that fell apart
You thought Miss Universe 2025 would be another predictable spectacle of forced smiles and dresses that cost more than a year’s rent in the city, right? Well, hold on, because this edition decided to change the script and become the most dramatic reality show that no one asked for, but that we are all talking about. Far from the perfection filtered by Instagram, this contest became a true battlefield between contestants, organizers and common sense.
As the competition progressed, the conflicts became worse than Wi-Fi on a Sunday night, tarnishing that image of elegance and sophistication that they try to sell us. The catwalk, which should be a stage of empowerment and beauty, became the epicenter of scandal and controversy, proving that sometimes reality surpasses any novel plot.
The organizer and his talent for problems
Just a few days ago, Nawat Itsaragrisil, the organizer of the event in Thailand, decided that his role was not to be a host, but rather the villain of the season. In an act that left us all with our mouths open, he was accused of publicly insulting and humiliating the Mexican representative, Fátima Bosch, going so far as to call her “stupid” and trying to intimidate her with the security personnel. Come on, totally unacceptable behavior that smacks of abuse of power.
The reaction was immediate. Several of the contestants, in an act of sisterhood that gave us back a little faith in humanity, left the room as a sign of protest. Even the current beauty queen spoke out in favor of Bosch and congratulated her for not staying silent. Because, let’s be clear, in 2025, staying silent in the face of these types of situations is not an option.
But, as in any good drama, the past always comes back to take its toll. After the incident with Fatima Bosch, public attention fell on Nawat, and her history of bad behavior came to light like dirty laundry in a move. The case of Rachel Gupta, winner of Miss Grand International 2024, resurfaced, who had already accused the Thai businessman of mistreatment and violence, creating a toxic environment with criticism of her physique and subjecting her to extreme diets. A pattern, don’t you think?
Health problems and unexpected resignation
As if the conflicts with the organizer were not enough, fate (or perhaps poor logistics) wanted to add more fuel to the fire. At least seven contestants suffered food poisoning that led them to require medical attention. The situation was so serious that Hungary’s candidate, Kincső Dezsényi, had to be emergency hospitalized. One would expect that in an event of this magnitude food security would be guaranteed, but apparently “every man for himself” prevailed here.
In the midst of this chaos, Helena O’Connor, representative of Iceland and one of the favorites, made the decision to withdraw from the contest due to personal and health problems. The news, announced by Helena herself through her social networks, reminded us that behind the crowns and glitter there are real people. “Sometimes life takes unexpected turns, and that’s okay. The last few days I haven’t been well and I had to be taken to the hospital by ambulance,” she wrote. A brave decision that prioritizes well-being over competition.
And if all this were not enough, even a TikTok video added to the controversy. Inna Moll, the representative of Chile, generated controversy after publishing a clip where, while she was being made up, she pretended to inhale a powder (which turned out to be makeup) to then show a transformed look. The publication unleashed harsh criticism, forcing Moll to clarify that it was all part of a viral “trend” and to offer a public apology. Because in the age of social media, even the most innocent content can be misinterpreted.
In summary, Miss Universe 2025 will go down in history not for its winner, but for having been the pageant where controversy was the true protagonist. Between accusations of mistreatment, health problems and an organizer with more complaints than successes, it is clear that the beauty industry needs a profound transformation that goes beyond the surface.
Did you know all the details of this very controversial edition? Share this article on your social networks and help us make visible what really happens behind the glitter of beauty pageants. Explore more related content in our shows section.
