Miss Universe Argentina loses crown over controversial interview
Magalí Benejam, the 2024 Miss Universe contestant representing Argentina, has been stripped of her title following controversial comments suggesting the global beauty pageant was rigged.
The 30-year-old model from Córdoba made her claims during a live YouTube interview with content creator King Lucho. Her remarks, which have since sparked widespread debate, questioned the integrity of the competition and implied that its results were predetermined.
“When they announced the Top 5, I saw the judges looking at each other in [strange] ways,” Benejam stated, as translated by the Latin Times. “They started looking at each other as if to say, ‘This is not what we chose, this is not what I chose.’ That’s what it felt like from the outside, and that’s where I said, ‘OK, this is fixed. It was always fixed, every year.’”
Benejam, who finished 12th in the competition, directed her criticism toward both the winner, Denmark’s 21-year-old Victoria Kjær Theilvig, and Miss Puerto Rico Jennifer Colón, who also placed in the Top 12. She alleged that Theilvig’s victory seemed predetermined, citing the presence of security guards around her during the final days. She also accused Colón of being unfriendly and donning the “worst” gown of the evening.
Despite losing, Benejam posted an Instagram reel boasting the caption, “The best body of this Miss Universe,” further fueling controversy.
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The Miss Universe Organization responded swiftly, revoking her title on January 2.
“The Miss Universe Organization Announces the Withdrawal of the Miss Universe Argentina Title from Miss Magalí Benejam,” the organization declared in a formal statement. It cited a violation of its core values, including diversity, inclusion, and respect for all participants.
“The decision comes after careful consideration and aligns with our commitment to uphold the highest standards of personal and professional conduct,” the statement continued. “This action is taken to protect the integrity of the organization and the opportunities it provides to women worldwide.”
Benejam has yet to remove the title “Miss Universe Argentina 2024” from her Instagram bio, nor has she issued a public response to the organization’s decision.
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