In an unprecedented turn of events, Magalí Benejam, the contestant representing Argentina in the 2024 Miss Universe competition, has been stripped of her title. The decision came after her explosive accusations that the prestigious pageant was rigged. Benejam, a 30-year-old from Córdoba, made the allegations during a live YouTube interview with prominent content creator King Lucho, sparking widespread controversy within the beauty pageant community.
The Allegations: Claims of Rigging and Questionable Judging
During the interview, Benejam recounted her experience at the competition, alleging that the judging process during the final rounds was not transparent. She specifically referenced the moment when the Top 5 contestants were announced, claiming that the judges displayed signs of confusion and discontent.
“When they announced the Top 5, I saw the judges looking at each other in [strange] ways,” she said, as per a translation by 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 also claimed to have received insider information suggesting that the results of the competition had been decided well in advance. She alleged that some people informed her that the winner was chosen 10 days prior to the final event, a statement that has only added fuel to the growing controversy.
Criticizing Fellow Contestants
Apart from her claims of rigging, Benejam also directed harsh criticism at other contestants, including the winner, 21-year-old Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark, and Jennifer Colón, a 37-year-old from Puerto Rico who also secured a place in the Top 12.
Benejam suggested that Theilvig might have been aware of her victory beforehand, noting that the Danish contestant was surrounded by a security detail during the final days of the competition.
“The winner already had three security guards with her. That doesn’t happen unless they know she’s going to win,” Benejam alleged.
Her criticism extended to Colón as well. Benejam described Colón as unfriendly, adding that the Puerto Rican contestant avoided engaging in conversation in the days leading up to the finale.
“I spoke to her a couple of times, but the last few days she decided to stop talking to me, I don’t know why,” Benejam said, according to a Daily Mail translation. “Even when I asked her something as simple as ‘How are you?’ she didn’t respond.”
Benejam also critiqued Colón’s choice of attire, calling her gown the “worst” of the evening. These statements have been viewed by many as unprofessional and unbecoming of a titleholder.
The Instagram Controversy
Following her loss, Benejam shared an Instagram reel that further fueled the controversy. The video featured a caption that, when translated, read, “The best body of this Miss Universe.” Critics interpreted this as a dig at the other contestants and an attempt to undermine the competition’s integrity.
The post quickly attracted both supporters and detractors, with some backing Benejam’s claims while others criticized her for being disrespectful toward her peers.
The Miss Universe Organization’s Decision
The Miss Universe Organization wasted no time responding to Benejam’s comments and actions. On January 2, 2025, they announced that her title as Miss Universe Argentina was being revoked.
“The Miss Universe Organization Announces the Withdrawal of the Miss Universe Argentina Title from Miss Magalí Benejam,” the organization stated in an official press release.
The statement emphasized that participants in the Miss Universe competition are expected to uphold values of diversity, inclusion, and mutual respect.
“After a thorough review of recent public comments made by Miss Magalí Benejam, and based on our core principles, we have decided to withdraw immediately the title of Miss Universe Argentina from Miss Benejam.”
The organization reiterated that all representatives must reflect unwavering principles and respect for individuals regardless of their backgrounds, beliefs, or experiences.
The Fallout: Mixed Reactions
The incident has ignited widespread debate within the beauty pageant world and beyond. While some have praised Benejam for speaking out about alleged corruption, others have criticized her for her lack of decorum and professionalism. The decision to revoke her title has also drawn divided opinions, with some viewing it as a necessary step to preserve the organization’s reputation, while others see it as an attempt to silence dissent.
Many industry experts believe that Benejam’s comments, regardless of their validity, have highlighted the need for greater transparency in the judging and scoring processes of international pageants. Critics argue that such controversies could tarnish the credibility of these events and discourage talented individuals from participating.
The Larger Implications for Beauty Pageants
This controversy comes at a time when beauty pageants are already under scrutiny for their relevance and inclusivity in modern society. Over the years, the Miss Universe Organization has made efforts to adapt to changing societal norms, including the inclusion of married women and mothers in the competition. However, incidents like this one underscore the challenges the organization faces in maintaining its integrity.
The scandal also raises questions about the role of social media in shaping public perceptions of contestants and competitions. Benejam’s use of platforms like Instagram and YouTube to voice her grievances reflects a growing trend of participants leveraging their personal platforms to challenge authority, sometimes at great personal cost.
What’s Next for Magalí Benejam?
As of now, Benejam has not issued an apology or removed references to her Miss Universe Argentina title from her social media profiles. It remains unclear whether she plans to pursue legal action or further discuss her allegations against the Miss Universe Organization.
Her comments and the subsequent fallout have undoubtedly left a lasting impact on her career and public image. Whether she will continue to work in the fashion and beauty industry or take her platform in a different direction remains to be seen.
The removal of Magalí Benejam’s title as Miss Universe Argentina has brought attention to the controversies and challenges within beauty pageants. While the Miss Universe Organization has taken a firm stance on the matter, the incident highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in the industry. Whether this controversy will lead to meaningful changes or fade into history as just another scandal remains an open question. For now, it serves as a reminder of the complexities and pressures that come with representing a global platform.
