Victoria Kjær Theilvig Crowned Miss Universe 2024
Victoria Kjær Theilvig has made history as Denmark’s first Miss Universe 2024. The 21-year-old is a competitive dancer, entrepreneur, and aspiring lawyer. She won the title in a ceremony held in Mexico City. Theilvig beat more than 120 contestants to take the crown.
During the event, she received her tiara from the reigning Miss Universe, Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua. The final featured a performance by singer Robin Thicke. Mario Lopez and former Miss Universe Olivia Culpo hosted the show.
The pageant format this year introduced a dramatic narrowing down from over 120 contestants to a final 30. This decision was based on preliminary events that included a national costume competition. After a swimwear parade, the contestants showcased evening gowns. This process led to the final 12 competitors.
In her acceptance speech, Theilvig encouraged viewers to “keep fighting, no matter where you come from.” She expressed her desire for change and to make history.
Chidimma Adetshina of Nigeria was named first runner-up. Maria Fernanda Beltran of Mexico took second runner-up. The top five also included Suchata Chuangsri of Thailand and Ileana Marquez Pedroza of Venezuela. Pedroza is a 28-year-old mother and made history by reaching the top five after the pageant lifted age restrictions.
This year’s competition marked a major milestone in the pageant’s 72-year history. For the first time, women over 28 could participate. Malta’s Beatrice Njoya was the first woman in her 40s to reach the grand finale. The change in age limit came as the pageant faced pressure to modernize and reflect cultural shifts. The Miss Universe Organization also removed bans on pregnant women, mothers, and those who have been married.
Cuba participated for the first time in 57 years, represented by Marianela Ancheta. Several countries, including Belarus, Eritrea, and the United Arab Emirates, also made their debuts. However, the lead-up to the event included some controversies. In South Africa, Adetshina left the competition due to nationality disputes but was later chosen to represent Nigeria. Additionally, Nicaragua’s Miss Universe director resigned amidst political issues in the country.
The Miss Universe pageant is evolving. This year’s edition highlighted new faces and broke down long-standing barriers.
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