The Miss Universe pageant has long been a platform for aspiring stars, with numerous celebrities having graced its stage over the years. From actors to models, these women have leveraged their pageant success to launch illustrious careers in the entertainment industry. Join us as we explore the captivating stories of eight such celebrities who have competed at Miss Universe and the remarkable paths they've forged since then.

Unlocking the Secrets of Pageant Stardom

Kenya Moore: From Miss USA to Reality TV Royalty

Kenya Moore's journey to fame began when she represented the United States at the 1993 Miss Universe pageant. As the second Black woman to win the Miss USA title, Moore's performance at Miss Universe was nothing short of impressive, as she secured a spot in the top six. Following her pageant success, Moore transitioned into the world of television, appearing on shows like "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" and "Living Single." However, it was her extensive career in reality television that truly cemented her status as a household name. Moore has been a cast member on the hit series "The Real Housewives of Atlanta" since 2012, showcasing her dynamic personality and captivating audiences with her unparalleled drama.

Ali Landry: From Doritos Diva to Versatile Actress

Ali Landry's pageant journey began when she won the Miss Louisiana and Miss USA titles in 1996, earning her a spot at that year's Miss Universe competition. While she didn't take home the crown, Landry's pageant experience paved the way for her to become a household name. Her big break came when she starred in a Doritos ad that aired during the 1999 Super Bowl, cementing her status as a pop culture icon. Landry's acting career also took off, with roles in television shows like "EVE" and the divisive film "Sound of Freedom" in 2023, showcasing her versatility as a performer.

Gal Gadot: From Miss Israel to Wonder Woman

Gal Gadot's path to stardom began when she was crowned Miss Israel in 2004 and went on to compete at Miss Universe that same year. While she didn't place among the top 10, Gadot's pageant experience was just the beginning of her remarkable journey. After completing her mandatory military service in Israel, Gadot's breakthrough role in the "Fast and Furious" franchise in 2009 propelled her to international fame. Her most iconic role, however, came in 2017 when she donned the iconic Wonder Woman costume, captivating audiences worldwide and solidifying her status as a true action star.

Crystle Stewart: From Miss USA to Pageant Controversy

Crystle Stewart's pageant journey began when she won the Miss USA title in 2008, representing Texas. While she made it to the top 10 at Miss Universe that year, a fall during the evening gown portion of the competition prevented her from taking home the crown. After her pageant success, Stewart transitioned into acting, with her most notable role being Leslie Morris in the TBS and OWN series "For Better or Worse." In a surprising turn of events, Stewart returned to the pageant world in 2020, becoming the president of Miss USA and Miss Teen USA. However, her tenure was short-lived, as she was suspended from her position in 2022 amid allegations of a rigged competition. The controversy surrounding Stewart's departure from the organization has only added to her notoriety, making her a figure of intrigue in the world of pageantry.

Olivia Culpo: From Miss Universe to Multifaceted Entertainer

Olivia Culpo's pageant journey was nothing short of remarkable. In 2012, she became the first Miss USA to win the Miss Universe title in 15 years, cementing her status as a pageant powerhouse. After her reign, Culpo transitioned into the world of entertainment, appearing in films like "The Other Woman" and "I Feel Pretty." Her success, however, extends far beyond the silver screen, as she has also become a successful Instagram influencer with over 5 million followers. Culpo's versatility and entrepreneurial spirit have allowed her to thrive in multiple arenas, making her a true force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry.

Catriona Gray: From Miss World to Miss Universe Royalty

Catriona Gray's pageant journey is a testament to her determination and talent. Before winning the Miss Universe crown in 2018, Gray had already made a name for herself on the pageant circuit, competing at Miss World 2016 and placing in the top five. Her performance at Miss Universe 2018 was particularly memorable, as her "lava walk" during the competition went viral, earning praise from supermodels Tyra Banks and Ashley Graham. Since her reign, Gray has continued to captivate audiences, hosting and performing on the Philippines musical variety show "Sunday Noontime Live!" and serving as a backstage correspondent for the Miss Universe competition in 2022 and 2023.

Cheslie Kryst: From Miss USA to Trailblazing Correspondent

Cheslie Kryst's pageant journey was marked by both triumph and tragedy. In 2019, she won the Miss USA title while representing North Carolina and went on to place in the top 10 at Miss Universe. Kryst's success, along with the victories of other women of color in major pageants that year, helped make history as the first time Miss USA, Miss Teen USA, Miss Universe, and Miss America had all been won by women of color. After her reign, Kryst transitioned into a career as a correspondent for "Extra," earning two Daytime Emmy nominations. Tragically, Kryst's life was cut short in 2022 when she died at the age of 30. Her legacy, however, lives on, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps and use their platforms to make a positive impact.

Noelia Voigt: From Miss USA to Pageant Controversy

Noelia Voigt's journey to the Miss Universe stage was marked by both triumph and controversy. In 2023, she was crowned Miss USA, representing Utah. While she placed in the top 20 at Miss Universe, Voigt's reign was short-lived, as she announced her resignation just months later to focus on her mental health. Voigt's decision to step down, coupled with allegations of bullying within the Miss USA organization, sparked a media frenzy and brought attention to the challenges faced by pageant contestants. Despite the controversy, Voigt's courage in prioritizing her well-being has inspired others, with even supermodel Bella Hadid expressing admiration for her decision.