On November 16, 2024, Victoria Kjær Theilvig, representing Denmark, was crowned Miss Universe 2024 during the pageant held in Mexico City. Her victory is significant not just because it marks Denmark's first win, but because it has stirred up debates on social media, especially concerning inclusivity and what some are calling the "Trump Effect." Social media posts celebrated Theilvig’s win as emblematic of what supporters view as the restoration of traditional pageant values.
Theilvig, 21 years old, is not just another pretty face; she is also an aspiring lawyer with interests extending to the diamond industry and animal welfare. After outshining more than 120 contestants, she took home the crown and will be spending the next year advocating for humanitarian causes worldwide. Along with this prestigious title, Theilvig receives an annual salary of $250,000, along with luxurious perks, including access to high-end brands and the iconic $5.5 million diamond crown.
Social media erupted after her victory, with many users linking it to the ideologies purportedly pushed by former President Donald Trump, who previously owned the Miss Universe Organization. Supporters of Trump interpreted Theilvig's win as not only a victory for Denmark but for cultural conservatism on the global stage. "The world is healing," tweeted one user, capturing the sentiments of those who believe her success indicates the end of progressive influences on the pageant circuit.
Interestingly, this year's Miss Universe competition was devoid of transgender contestants, diverging from previous editions where such inclusivity had been showcased. Critics assert this absence signifies not merely a conservative shift but rather a response to societal debates around inclusivity and representation. Theilvig’s crowning has reignited discussions about what beauty standards should represent and who gets to compete for international titles.
Conversely, some fans of the contest voiced their discontent, reflecting on the traditional notion of beauty being defined by relatively narrow parameters, which they believe is being eroded by modern inclusivity trends. Online commentators echoed the view, declaring Theilvig's win as symbolic of both beauty and biology, with many expressing sentiments of shock and elation after witnessing the crowning of what they describe as “a biological woman.”
Within the pageant community, Theilvig has been no stranger to competition. Before her historic win, she made headlines by placing among the Top 20 at Miss Grand International 2022. Known for her entrepreneurial spirit, she founded her own jewelry brand at just 16, showcasing her drive and ambition long before entering Miss Universe.
Drawing attention to the political spectrum, figures such as Donald Trump Jr. have taken to social media to celebrate Theilvig’s victory. His post articulated the sentiment of what some supporters see as the return of “normalcy,” emphasizing traditional beauty standards. Meanwhile, billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk shared memes reflecting the surprise and delight surrounding the decision to crown Theilvig, adding more fuel to the online debates.
Theilvig expressed her gratitude following her victory, stating, "I am honored to represent Denmark and excited to take this title home." Her sentiment completes the picture of what many perceive as not just campaign competition, but also as societal reflection.
The wave of excitement surrounding this win has largely been accompanied by discussions of what it means for future iterations of the Miss Universe pageant. The shift away from previous years' inclusivity norms is palpable, leading both supporters and detractors to discuss how the pageant should evolve moving forward. Theilvig’s victory may well signal not just her success, but also the emergence of new cultural narratives.
Critically, experts and commentators continue to examine whether the shift reflects broader societal trends or simply transient reactions to political climates. For now, Victoria Kjær Theilvig stands as the 73rd Miss Universe, and her reign promises to be as controversial as it is commemorative.
