The Miss Universe pageant is currently facing significant turmoil, particularly after the resignations of two judges. One left amid controversy over alleged rigging, while the other cited “unforeseen personal reasons.” The situation worsened when Jamaican contestant Gabrielle Henry experienced a fall off the stage during the evening gown qualifying round.
This incident occurred during the 2025 competition in Thailand, where Henry, donned in a sequined orange dress, took a misstep and fell off the main stage as she made her way in front of the audience.
The Miss Universe Jamaica organization reported that Henry was quickly taken to Paolo Rangsit Hospital for treatment and confirmed that her injuries were not life-threatening.
“I was present with her family, and thankfully, she has no broken bones. She is being well cared for and will remain under observation overnight. We will continue to support her family,” stated Raul Rocha, president of the Miss Universe pageant, on Instagram. He also mentioned that he visited Henry during her stay in the hospital, wishing her a speedy recovery.
Another shake-up occurred when Lebanese-French composer Omar Harhoush resigned from the judging panel. He alleged that a “secret ballot” had been used to pre-select 30 contestants from a total of 136.
“This vote was taken by individuals, including myself, who were not official jurors. As of now, no one knows who those 30 selected contestants are, except for one person who possesses the results,” Harhoush explained.
“I couldn’t stand in front of the public or cameras justifying a vote I didn’t participate in. Some of the countries excluded in this process may be at war or geopolitically sensitive. It would be misleading to pretend otherwise,” he added.
The Miss Universe Organization responded by asserting that all judging procedures are “official, transparent, and fully governed by MUO Protocol.” They emphasized that there is no unofficial jury and no external entity authorized to evaluate delegates or select finalists.
The second judge, Claude Makelele, a former French soccer player, announced his absence, citing unforeseen personal reasons as well.
Makelele later expressed his regrets to the organization and contestants on his Instagram, hoping for better circumstances in the future.
The final day of the Miss Universe competition is scheduled for November 21st.
