Miss Universe 2025 will crown its new winner Friday in Bangkok, but the pageant enters its final hours surrounded by controversy, leadership disruptions, and unprecedented judge resignations. The event, featuring 136 contestants and themed “The Power of Love,” will be broadcast globally as organizers attempt to stabilize a turbulent week.
The Miss Universe Organization confirmed host, judging, and format changes following multiple disputes at pre-pageant events. As fans prepare to tune in, questions remain about fairness, transparency and how the competition will proceed under revised oversight.
What Happened at Miss Universe 2025?
The 74th Miss Universe pageant, held at Impact Challenger Hall in Bangkok, Thailand, will begin at 8 p.m. ET on Nov. 20 for U.S. viewers.
Contestants arrived on Nov. 2 and have engaged in tours, rehearsals, fittings and media activities across Bangkok and Pattaya. However, several controversies surfaced during these preparation weeks:
A viral livestream incident where contestants walked out during a meeting with Thai executive Nawat Itsaragrisil, after he scolded Miss Mexico.
The Miss Universe Organization subsequently restricted his participation, citing a need to protect contestant dignity.
A series of judge withdrawals—including Omar Harfouch, Claude Makélélé, and Princess Camilla di Borbone—citing confusion, concerns over an alleged “impromptu jury,” and conflicts of interest.
In response, the organization swiftly added three new judges and reaffirmed the competition’s fairness standards.
Quotes & Reactions from Officials
Miss Universe President Raul Rocha Cantu issued a video statement addressing concerns:
“I will not allow the values of respect and dignity toward women to be violated.”
Judge Omar Harfouch, announcing his withdrawal, noted:
“I experienced profound confusion and concern after learning an unofficial panel was allegedly formed to select finalists.”
Former Miss Universe 2005 Natalie Glebova, added to the judging roster, stated through the organization:
“The committee remains committed to integrity, transparency and respect for every delegate.”
How the Controversies Influence Miss Universe 2025
The controversies surrounding Miss Universe 2025 have sparked global debate across pageant communities. The sudden judge withdrawals and allegations of unofficial decision-making have:
Raised questions about the fairness of finalist selection.
Triggered concerns from national directors and fans in multiple countries.
Increased pressure on organizers to ensure transparent scoring during Friday’s coronation.
Despite the turbulence, interest and viewership projections remain high, with 136 nations represented—one of the largest pools in recent Miss Universe history.
How to Watch the Miss Universe 2025 Final
U.S. viewers can watch Miss Universe 2025 tonight at 8 p.m. ET on:
Telemundo (official broadcaster)
Peacock (official streaming partner)
The pageant will conclude with the coronation ceremony on Nov. 21 (Thailand local time) at Impact Challenger Hall.
Organizers have confirmed all judge positions are now filled and the event will proceed with its standard scoring system.
Sources
People Magazine
ESPN
Associated Press
Variety
Official Miss Universe Organization website
