Who will win Miss Universe 2024? Here is a list of the most talked about participants

The Miss Universe 2024 pageant promises a historic and captivating pageant set to take place in Mexico City on November 16. As fans around the world eagerly await the crowning of the next Miss Universe, the excitement begins with the inaugural pageant and national costume show on Thursday, November 14. To add to the anticipation, reigning Miss Universe Sheynnis Palacios will host a farewell party on the 15th. November, before she passes on her crown.

This year, the Miss Universe Organization has upped the ante with a record thirty semi-finalists, up from twenty in previous years. Contestants will first compete in the preliminary competition, which includes the swimsuit segment, evening gown round and closed-door interviews. Four continental queens and one fan vote winner will secure automatic semi-finalist spots in these events.

The remaining semifinalists will compete in the swimsuit segment, with twelve advancing to the evening gown round. Five finalists will then advance to the Q&A round, where the ultimate winner and her four runners-up will be named.

Most talked about participants

Miss Universe controversies and surprises

This year’s competition has seen several surprising changes among national representatives. Frankie Russell was originally chosen to represent New Zealand but was replaced by Victoria Vincent due to changes in franchise ownership. Similarly, Iranian-American nurse Fay Asghari, the original Miss Universe Persia 2024, relinquished her crown due to labor disputes and passed it on to Ava Vahneshan.

Meanwhile, Andrea Radford of Guatemala withdrew due to her pregnancy, and Armenia’s Irina Zakharova faced backlash for her nationality, which ultimately led to her disqualification and replacement Emma Avanesyan.

Debuts, returns and disqualifications

This year, the Miss Universe stage will feature new countries such as Belarus, Eritrea, Guinea and the United Arab Emirates. In addition, several nations return after years of absence, including Cuba (last competing in 1967) and Fiji (absent since 1981). However, Italy Mora from Panama was disqualified for allegedly leaving the hotel without permission from the Miss Universe Organization, a reminder of the pageant’s strict rules.

Who are the judges of Miss Universe 2024?

A prestigious panel known for its fairness will judge the Miss Universe contestants on evening wear, traditional outfits and interviews. This year’s lineup includes social media stars Lele PonsColombian singer FarianaTelemundo host Jessica Carrillomusic producer Emilio EstefanBrazilian artist Romero Brittofashion icon Eva Cavalliformer Miss Universe Margaret Gardinerand well-known designer Michael Cinco.

What’s next?

The excitement continues with the inaugural competition on November 14, where fans worldwide will get a first look at each contestant’s performance. Keep an eye out HELLO‘s coverage of the National Costume competition and the final event.