Miss Universe 2025 Scandal: A Third Judge Resigns Days Ahead of Finals

Post by : Saif Nasser

As the Miss Universe 2025 pageant approaches its grand finals in Bangkok, Thailand, scheduled for November 21, controversy has intensified. In an unprecedented situation, a third judge has stepped down, plunging the event into further scrutiny over the integrity of its judging process. Princess Camilla di Borbone delle Due Sicilie, who held the position of president of the Miss Universe selection committee, resigned only two days ahead of the ceremony. Her departure follows that of musician and former judge Omar Harfouch and French soccer manager Claude Makélélé.

Omar Harfouch voiced grave concerns about the fairness of the judging process, alleging that an “impromptu jury” had pre-selected the top 30 contestants without the original eight judges' input. He accused this special jury of having ties to some contestants, thereby compromising the competition’s integrity. Harfouch expressed that he could not participate in “playing with the destiny of young girls” and felt disrespected after raising his concerns with Miss Universe CEO Raul Rocha. Claude Makélélé also left the panel, citing “unforeseen personal reasons.”

The resignation of Princess Camilla has only added fuel to the fire, with fans and followers of the pageant expressing astonishment and concern about the competition’s credibility. Social media is abuzz with debates about the implications of these developments.

In a separate incident, Dr. Gabrielle Henry, Miss Universe Jamaica, experienced a distressing fall from the stage during the preliminary events on November 19. Clad in an elegant orange evening gown and heels, she stumbled and fell. Fortunately, she was rushed to Paolo Rangsit Hospital, where medical staff confirmed her injuries are non-life-threatening, though it's yet to be determined if she can compete in the finals.

Earlier tensions arose when Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch, clashed with pageant organiser Nawat Itsaragrisil during a live event, resulting in Nawat referring to her as “dumb” following a missed photoshoot. This incident led to several contestants walking out in protest, heightening concerns regarding the management's approach to participants.

Despite the unfolding chaos, the Miss Universe Organisation asserts that the finals will proceed as planned on November 21. Officials are keen on assuring the public that the remaining judges will fulfill their roles. Nonetheless, these recent events have dulled the usual glamour associated with the pageant, casting uncertainty over an event renowned for its celebration of beauty and talent.

As the world watches closely, the pageant's handling of these controversies will be under scrutiny, with the remaining contestants needing to maintain their focus amid the drama. What unfolds in the coming days will be pivotal for the organisers as they strive to uphold the event's reputation.