Danish beauty Victoria Kjaer Theilvig captured the 2024 Miss Universe crown on Saturday night in Mexico City.
Competing against over 120 contestants, the 21-year-old’s victory sparked a wave of reactions online, many tinged with shock and sarcasm.
Amid debates over inclusivity, some commentators noted her triumph as a return to tradition, given the growing diversity in recent pageants.
Theilvig’s Victory: A Return to Conventional Roots
Theilvig’s win came during a ceremony that showcased a mix of elegance and spectacle.
Unlike last year’s competition, which featured married women, plus-sized contestants, and transgender participants, this year’s event leaned toward a more traditional format.
Her win highlighted a significant moment for the pageant after years of evolving standards and inclusivity efforts.
Divided Reactions: Support, Satire, and Criticism
Online reactions were swift and varied. Political commentator Matt Wallace sarcastically tweeted, “Fans shocked after straight, white, biological woman wins Miss Universe 2024.”
Others celebrated the result as a “return to normalcy,” reflecting a growing backlash against changes in beauty pageant norms.
However, many responses also criticized the tone of these comments, arguing they undermined the diversity strides the competition has made.
The Evolving Landscape of Miss Universe
Under the ownership of Thai media mogul and transgender rights advocate Anne Jakkapong Jakrajutatip, Miss Universe has embraced inclusivity.
Last year saw the first transgender finalist, Marina Machete from Portugal, and Rikkie Valerie Kolle, the first transgender Miss Netherlands.
While none made it to the finals this year, their presence continued to push boundaries in the pageant world.
Broader Context: Gender and Representation
The debate over transgender inclusion in competitions extends beyond pageants.
Recent controversies, such as boxer Imane Khelif’s disqualification due to testosterone levels and Dylan Mulvaney’s recognition as “Woman of the Year,” have fueled polarizing discussions about gender identity and representation.
These debates mirror the challenges faced by transgender pageant contestants like Kolle and Machete, who have advocated for acceptance while navigating public scrutiny.
Looking Ahead
As Miss Universe adapts to societal shifts, Theilvig’s victory underscores the complexities of balancing tradition with inclusivity.
While her win has been celebrated by some as a nod to the pageant’s roots, others see it as a step back in representing a broader definition of beauty.
The future of the competition remains a focal point for debates on gender and identity, ensuring these discussions will continue well beyond this year’s crown.
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