The Miss Universe Pageant in Disarray
On November 19, 2025, chaos ensued during the Miss Universe pageant held in Thailand when Gabrielle Henry, the contestant from Jamaica, fell off the stage during the evening gown round. This incident has sparked intense scrutiny not only of the event itself but also of the troubling allegations of rigging that have surfaced within the competition.
"I was there with her family and her, and thankfully, there are no broken bones and she is under good care," said Raul Rocha, Miss Universe's president, in an Instagram update.
Preliminary Rounds and Emerging Controversies
The night was punctuated with drama as two judges had already resigned from the judging panel. One of the judges, Omar Harfouch, a Lebanese-French composer, cited a "secret vote" that purportedly excluded jury input to pre-select 30 contestants. This claim raised alarming questions about the legitimacy and transparency of the pageant's judging process.
Harfouch's departure was accompanied by serious allegations: "I could not stand before the public and television cameras, pretending to legitimize a vote I never took part in," he stated, highlighting concerns of geopolitical biases influencing contestant selections from nations in conflict or undergoing discrimination.
Gabrielle Henry's Fall: A Grim Highlight
Gabrielle Henry's unexpected fall during the pageant was captured on video and showcased the physical dangers contestants face, compounded by the psychological strain of competing amidst a backdrop of corruption allegations. She had been walking confidently in a sequined orange gown before the mishap. The Miss Universe organization promptly attended to her needs, and thankfully, initial medical evaluations determined she faced no life-threatening injuries.
The Broader Implications
This incident, when juxtaposed against the rigging allegations, raises critical questions about the overall integrity of beauty pageants and their impact on the contestants' psychological well-being. When the competition structure is riddled with corruption claims, how can participants focus on showcasing their talents and aspirations?
- The necessity for transparency in judging processes
- The psychological toll on contestants amid public scrutiny
- The potential impact on viewers' perception of fairness in such competitions
Responses and Accountability
In response to Harfouch's allegations, the Miss Universe Organization released a statement denying any impropriety, asserting that their judging protocols were official and governed by established rules. The second judge's resignation, former soccer player Claude Makélélé, also highlighted personal reasons, creating further uncertainty regarding the event's leadership.
"This was a difficult decision, as I hold Miss Universe in the highest regard. The platform represents empowerment, diversity, and excellence — values I have always championed throughout my career," Makélélé wrote.
A Call for Reform
The Miss Universe competition, treasured by many as a celebration of beauty and diversity, now grapples with serious questions regarding ethical practices. As we reflect on events like these, it is crucial for the Miss Universe Organization and similar entities to consider reforms that safeguard the dignity of contestants while ensuring a fair and just competition process.
As the final day approaches on November 21, many are left wondering: can the Miss Universe pageant restore its reputation in the wake of such scandal?
Source reference: https://www.foxnews.com/world/miss-universe-contestant-falls-off-stage-rigging-allegations-rock-competition
