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Victoria Kjær Theilvig has completed her first 72 hours as Miss Universe 2024. She embarked on her first official trip from Mexico City to Miami. She participated in several interviews, generating excitement among pageant fans and making her country proud by bringing home its first crown.
The Søborg-born winner, a neighborhood located approximately 10 km northwest of central Copenhagen, Denmark, had also inspired an entire continent, as the last time a European won the title was in 2016 when Iris Mittenaere from France took the crown. Therefore, the triumph of the 21-year-old is significant on multiple levels.
MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - NOVEMBER 16: Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjær Theilvig, is crowned as Miss Universe 2024 in The 73rd Miss Universe Competition - show at Arena Ciudad de Mexico on November 16, 2024 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images)
"I was in a kind of state of shock, but I didn't think much because everything seemed surreal to me," she told us about the first moments after winning the crown
On her third day of activities, the blue-eyed Dane sat down with ¡HOLA! to share her excitement about this dream come true. She acknowledged that there is still much to process, as everything has happened so quickly. During the conversation, Victoria also shared her experiences leading up to the final, where she made some friends and colleagues.
Victoria, a dancer and philanthropist, shared with us the story of the lucky charm her mother gave her. She also spoke about her family environment, which has significantly shaped her character and made her the woman she is today. During this enjoyable conversation, Victoria revealed a few secrets, including her celebrity crush and whether she might consider making her acting debut after her reign ends—following in the footsteps of other beauty queens such as Dayanara Torres and Alicia Machado.
Please take us back to when you were holding hands with Miss Nigeria, waiting for the final result, when you finally heard your name. What was that like? What were you thinking at that moment?
Nothing was going through my mind. I was in a state of shock, and it all felt surreal to me. Being there was something I had worked towards my entire life, so actually being present and still standing was incredible for me.
How would you describe the days leading up to that moment? The experiences took place in Mexico, a beautiful country where various activities occurred, but at the same time, there was so much going on.
I love being in Mexico. The people are incredibly warm and welcoming, making me feel right at home. The food is amazing, and the culture is vibrant and rich. It was a true honor to be there with nearly 130 remarkable women. Every day, I learned so much from each of them, drawing on their diverse cultural backgrounds and life experiences. We had a significant age range, with the youngest being 18 and the oldest 40.
I learned a lot every day and took the opportunity to get to know these amazing women. Being around them was incredibly inspiring, and I am grateful for the experience.
Among the beauty queens, who was the one you felt closest to?
My roommate was from Jamaica, while I was from Denmark. These two places are entirely different, but we were like yin and yang. We connected instantly, and having her in my room was terrific. She is the sweetest person. I became close with many of the girls because I was excited about this trip and eager to learn from people worldwide. For instance, I connected with Tati from Peru and girls from Germany, Bolivia, and Finland. I cherished my relationships with all of them; I loved them all.
Her first interview with ¡HOLA! after winning the crown
When you won, who was the first family member you called?
My father, my sister, and my cousins flew in from Denmark to watch the final, which was incredible. I saw them at the hotel, and our reunion was filled with joy. We were all in shock and crying tears of happiness—it was amazing. I still get emotional talking about it now.
When I got to my room at midnight, I called my mom on FaceTime, and we were both crying as I showed her the crown. She had been watching the entire final and eagerly awaited my call, so it felt special.
Before I left for Mexico, she wrote me a letter and told me to open it as soon as I was on the flight. I kept it as my lucky charm throughout the trip and read it every night. It gave me so much hope.
The letter was in the shape of a heart, and she wrote things to me like I would do great, to keep believing in myself, and that I knew I could do it. So I was on the flight, and I read it. My eyes were filled with tears because she was so amazing.
Why couldn't she join you on the trip to Mexico?
She had to be home with my younger sister and my dog.
How many sisters do you have?
I am the oldest of three sisters. I have a younger sister who is 12 and another younger sister who just turned 18. The 12-year-old is in shock; it's surreal for her. For me, the proudest moment is making my younger sisters feel genuinely proud. I aspire to be an inspiration and a role model for them and now for the whole world.
Is there anyone in your family involved in runways or modeling? Are you the first person to do this?
I have a cousin who participated in Miss Universe, and I looked up to her when I was younger. I'm the only one in my family who has participated in beauty pageants. I realized something important when I was five years old, and that's what I've been working on since then. I've been a professional dancer all my life, which has taught me discipline. I have always enjoyed watching beauty pageants and admire the wonderful, free-spirited individuals worldwide.
MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - NOVEMBER 14: Miss Denmark Victoria Kjær Theilvig participates in the The 73rd Miss Universe Competition - Preliminary Competition at Arena Ciudad de Mexico on November 14, 2024 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images)
At what moment did you realize you truly wanted to dedicate yourself to this? You mentioned that you started developing a strong work ethic at five, but when did you decide to pursue the opportunity to become Miss Universe?
When I turned 17, I realized it was time to take action. I decided not to wait any longer because when you have a goal, you should pursue it immediately. At 17, I was determined to achieve my dream. Now, at 21, I am proud to be part of Miss Universe. This experience is a testament to the fact that hard work pays off.
Did your parents support your decision?
My parents have always been supportive of my ambitions. While they value education greatly, I began pursuing my goals very young because I wanted to achieve more than just academic success. I started my own company when I was 16, and now I can support myself through that venture. This has allowed me to focus on making my dreams come true. I am grateful for my family's unwavering support.
Could you share more about your family background, education, and origins?
I come from a dysfunctional family, but I prefer not to dwell on the negative aspects of my past. Instead, I aim to transform my experiences into strengths that drive me forward and help cultivate a positive mindset. Regardless of where you come from or your background, it's important to strive for more, using those experiences as motivation to improve. Ultimately, your life is in your hands, and you have the power to shape it.
At what moment did you realize you truly wanted to dedicate yourself to this? You mentioned that you started developing a strong work ethic at five, but when did you decide to pursue the opportunity to become Miss Universe?
When I turned 17, I realized it was time to take action. I decided not to wait any longer because when you have a goal, you should pursue it immediately. At 17, I was determined to achieve my dream. Now, at 21, I am proud to be part of Miss Universe. This experience is a testament to the fact that hard work pays off.
Did your parents support your decision?
My parents have always been supportive of my ambitions. While they value education greatly, I began pursuing my goals very young because I wanted to achieve more than just academic success. I started my own company when I was 16, and now I can support myself through that venture. This has allowed me to focus on making my dreams come true. I am grateful for my family's unwavering support.
Could you share more about your family background, education, and origins?
I come from a dysfunctional family, but I prefer not to dwell on the negative aspects of my past. Instead, I aim to transform my experiences into strengths that drive me forward and help cultivate a positive mindset. Regardless of where you come from or your background, it's important to strive for more, using those experiences as motivation to improve. Ultimately, your life is in your hands, and you have the power to shape it.
MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - NOVEMBER 16: Miss Nigeria, Chidimma Adetshina, Miss Mexico, Maria Fernanda Beltran, Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjær Theilvig, Miss Thailand, Opal Suchata Chuangsri, Miss Venezuela, Ileana Marquez, hold hands in The 73rd Miss Universe Competition - show at Arena Ciudad de Mexico on November 16, 2024 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images)
What's happening in Denmark? How are people reacting? For us Latinos, it seems very 'crazy.' What have your compatriots shared about their feelings? When do you plan to return to your country?
Yes, Denmark is a very small country with a population of six million inhabitants, and beauty pageants have never been a significant event here. However, right now, Denmark is buzzing with excitement. The media is buzzing, and I feel like my face is everywhere. It's a fantastic feeling to finally showcase the significance of beauty pageants and their impact on the world in Denmark. My home country is immensely proud that I put Denmark on the Miss Universe map as the first woman from Denmark to win the title.
Great job! When are you planning to return home for a warm welcome?
The homecoming doesn't have an exact date yet, but we are planning an event after New York.
Are you excited to go to New York?
I'm very excited! We have to do all the official photo shoots, and I love being in New York. It feels like my second home because I have family there. Miami also holds a special place in my heart; when I was little, I used to travel here three times a year. So, for me, Miami feels like a second home, too.
MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - NOVEMBER 16: Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjær Theilvig, walks on stage in The 73rd Miss Universe Competition - show at Arena Ciudad de Mexico on November 16, 2024 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images)
As a global ambassador for Miss Universe, what excites you most about traveling, meeting people, and participating in international projects?
I'm genuinely excited about everything. I can't wait to travel worldwide, experience different cultures, and connect with local communities. I want to offer help wherever I can. While I know I can't change the entire world, I can make a difference in small ways. If I can help just one person, that will bring me much hope.
Right now, you may be the most well-known person in the world. How do you feel about that?
To me, it's hard to understand because I'm still me. When people ask, 'Can I take a picture with you?' I respond, 'Why would you want a picture with me?' It's crazy.
One thing I noticed is that you wore dresses by both a Dominican and a Peruvian designer during the process. What motivated your embrace of Latin American fashion?
I have been working very hard leading up to the competition. My team and I have made a concerted effort to connect with a wide range of international designers from around the globe. I traveled to Bangkok and Miami and engaged with numerous Latino designers. My goal was to represent not only Danish culture but also to showcase designers from various countries, allowing me to support local stores and highlight the incredible talent found worldwide. It was essential for me to help as many companies as possible.
Miss Universe 2024 Victoria Kjær Theilvig wearing a design from Bride to Be by Suzelle Taveras
What is your biggest dream right now?
My biggest dream was to be Miss Universe, and I have achieved that. Now, I am focusing on the journey, striving to improve myself, and becoming the best version of myself. Even though I am Miss Universe, I learn something new daily and want to continue my personal growth.
Many people are curious about what happens after the reign ends, as some former titleholders become actresses. Have you considered that possibility? Would you like to act?
The universe has a plan for me, so I don't have a specific next step. I plan to continue my philanthropic work and spend time with my family. At this moment, I'm not dreaming of becoming an actress or pursuing anything particular, but I trust that the universe has a great plan for me, and I look forward to seeing what unfolds.
And who is your showbiz crush?
Nicholas Alexander Chavez!
What genre would you choose if you had the chance to make a cameo in a movie? Would it be an action film or something romantic? If you could share the screen with someone, who would it be, and what type of movie would you want to be in?
I would love to be in a comedy; I enjoy that genre. I would also love to do a teen romance movie. I appreciate that he is nice, sweet, funny, and outgoing.
This interview was translated, edited, and condensed for clarity purposes.