Miss Universe

The Miss Universe pageant has transformed from a local 1952 swimsuit competition into a global platform for leadership and social advocacy. As the organization prepares for its 75th Diamond Jubilee later this year, it remains the most influential beauty competition in the world.

History and Legacy

Pacific Knitting Mills founded the pageant in Long Beach, California, in 1952. The company created the event after the reigning Miss America refused to pose in one of their swimsuits. Over the decades, the competition has shifted its focus from physical appearance to a multi-dimensional evaluation of intelligence, personality, and social impact.

Ownership Milestones:

  • 1996–2015: Donald Trump owned the organization.
  • 2015–2022: WME/IMG managed the brand.
  • 2022–Present: Anne Jakrajutatip (JKN Global Group) and Raul Rocha Cantú (Legacy Holding Group) co-own the pageant. Their leadership has introduced a significant shift toward inclusivity, including the first transgender owner and a broader definition of eligibility.

Recent Titleholders and the 2025 Milestone

Recent winners represent historic firsts for their nations, each bringing a unique advocacy to the global stage.

YearWinnerCountryKey Achievement
2025Fátima BoschMexicoReclaimed the crown for Mexico following a publicized standoff with executives.
2024Victoria Kjær TheilvigDenmarkBecame the first Danish woman to win the Miss Universe title.
2023Sheynnis PalaciosNicaraguaSecured the first-ever crown for Nicaragua.
2018Catriona GrayPhilippinesPopularized the “Lava Walk” while promoting education in Tondo.

The 74th Edition: The pageant in Nonthaburi, Thailand, generated significant headlines. Fátima Bosch won the title despite a foot injury and reported disagreements with pageant leadership. Her performance earned widespread praise for its resilience and authenticity.

Modern Rules and Inclusivity

Under current leadership, the Miss Universe Organization has implemented the most significant rule changes in its 74-year history to reflect modern society:

  • No Age Limits: Starting in 2024, the organization abolished the upper age limit. Any woman over 18 may now compete.
  • Mothers and Wives: Since 2023, the pageant has welcomed married women, divorcees, and mothers, ending decades of restrictive requirements.
  • Advocacy Focus: The “Beyond the Crown” initiative, led by CEO Mario Búcaro, prioritizes a contestant’s work in entrepreneurship, education, and social impact.

Road to Puerto Rico 2026

The 75th Diamond Jubilee will take place in November 2026 in Puerto Rico. The organization plans to celebrate its history with tributes to past winners and a return to the Caribbean.

National Spotlight: Philippines The search for the next Filipina representative is currently underway.

  • Ahtisa Manalo, who finished as 3rd Runner-Up in 2025, currently holds the national title.
  • For 2026, Miss Universe Philippines has introduced a new “fan-driven” format that increases public participation in preliminary scoring.

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