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Nearly two months have passed since Denmark’s Victoria Kjær Theilvig was crowned Miss Universe, and while she continues her reign, some of her former competitors are in the spotlight for different reasons. As 2025 begins, the Miss Universe Organization announced its decision to strip Magalí Benejam, Argentina’s representative in the 2024 competition, of her title due to controversial comments made during a recent interview.
“After a thorough review of Miss Magalí Benejam’s public statements, and in line with our core principles, we have decided to immediately withdraw the title of Miss Universe Argentina from her,” the organization stated in a press release published on January 2.
© AFP via Getty ImagesThe statement emphasized the values of the Miss Universe Organization: “Our mission is to celebrate diversity, promote inclusion, and respect all people, regardless of their backgrounds, beliefs, or experiences. Representatives of our organization must uphold these principles, which are central to the Miss Universe community.”
The organization explained that the decision was made carefully: “This action aligns with our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of personal and professional conduct. It is necessary to protect the integrity of the organization and the opportunities it provides to women worldwide.” The statement also highlighted ongoing efforts to ensure that the Miss Universe Organization remains a global example of excellence and social responsibility.
What Did Magalí Benejam Say?
On December 19, Magalí Benejam appeared on a live YouTube broadcast with content creator King Lucho, where she spoke candidly about her experiences in the 2024 Miss Universe pageant. Her remarks, which included criticism of fellow contestants and the organization, quickly stirred controversy.
© Getty ImagesThe 30-year-old model, who placed in the top 12 of the competition, commented on her relationship with Puerto Rico’s representative, Jennifer Colón. According to Magalí, their interactions were distant: “I suppose she was very nervous and focused on herself. On the last two days, I said to her, ‘Hello, Jenny, how are you?’ and she just looked at me and didn’t respond,” Magalí recounted.
She also criticized Jennifer’s outfit during the final gala: “For me, Puerto Rico’s gown was the worst of the night. I think it was a decision made entirely by her organization. Her style throughout the competition had been beautiful, so I doubt she had much say in this choice.”
© Getty ImagesMagalí didn’t hold back her thoughts about other moments in the competition either. She described Sheynnis Palacios’ farewell from the stage as “a horror,” adding: “She walked off alone, with her back to the audience. I thought, ‘Excuse me? This is the queen everyone adored, and you let her leave like that?’”
When asked about Miss Universe 2024 winner Victoria Kjær Theilvig, Magalí admitted to avoiding the Danish titleholder in the final days: “I didn’t greet her or anything. The last two days with her were awkward. During rehearsals, she looked at me with a bit of disgust.”
© Rodrigo VarelaMagalí also suggested the competition’s final results were questionable, implying potential favoritism. “(The judges) began looking at each other, as if to say, ‘This isn’t what we chose.’ That was the impression from the outside,” she remarked, hinting that the pageant might have been rigged.
Who Is Magalí Benejam?
Magalí Benejam Corthey, 30, represented Argentina in Miss Universe 2024. Born in Córdoba, she began her modeling career as a teenager. Her career eventually took her to Chile and later Mexico, where she furthered her professional career. She holds qualifications in coaching and astrology and speaks both English and Italian.
Despite her achievements, her comments have now overshadowed her pageant journey, sparking debate over the conduct expected of representatives in the Miss Universe community.
