A new docuseries titled “Crown of Deceit: Inside the Miss Universe Scandal” is set to premiere on 12 November 2023 on TLC. This three-part series aims to explore the various legal and ethical controversies that have enveloped the Miss Universe organisation in recent years, shedding light on claims of misconduct, internal strife, and pre-selection of finalists.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Crown-of-Deceit-102226-10-628cb5004b8e44cfa2b3a6a7fd3a3544.jpg)
The documentary will feature first-hand accounts from former contestants, insiders, and whistleblowers who have witnessed the inner workings of the pageant. Taylor Hale, Noelia Voigt, and Brittany Mason, among others, will share their experiences within the often glamorous but tumultuous world of beauty competitions.
In a press release, TLC highlighted that the series will present “exclusive interviews” and provide behind-the-scenes access, revealing a narrative that contradicts the polished public image often associated with such pageants. Through these testimonies, the series intends to uncover a sower reality, rife with allegations of intimidation and secretive non-disclosure agreements (NDAs).
The controversies being examined include the chaotic events surrounding the Miss Universe 2025 competition, which took place in Thailand last November. Reports emerged of heated confrontations between contestants and pageant executives, abrupt resignations of judges, and allegations of rigging that sent shockwaves through the community. The documentary promises to go beyond the surface, capturing the complexities and tensions that underpin the competition.
One of the most startling revelations comes from Omar Harfouch, a judge who resigned shortly before the 2025 contest. Harfouch claimed that the results had been predetermined, stating that a group of 30 finalists was selected prior to the event. This assertion has been met with official denials from the Miss Universe organisation, but Harfouch’s comments in the trailer suggest a deeper level of discontent within the pageant’s ranks.
Beyond individual contestants’ experiences, the docuseries will examine the leadership of the Miss Universe organisation, spotlighting figures such as its president Raul Rocha and co-owner Jakkaphong “Anne” Jakrajutatip. Rocha has faced scrutiny as his bank accounts were frozen in connection with a criminal investigation involving allegations of drug and weapon trafficking.
Jakrajutatip, who co-owns the Miss Universe franchise through her company, JKN Global Group, has also been embroiled in controversy. She received a two-year prison sentence for fraud in connection with a corporate bond investment. Reports indicate that she had neglected to appear in court when the ruling was passed, and a warrant is reportedly out for her arrest.
The series poses critical questions about the integrity of beauty pageants, prompting commentary from insiders like writer Zoey Lyttle, who queries whether Miss Universe could be termed a “scam” or “con job.” Through interviews and documentary footage, “Crown of Deceit” aims to encourage a broader dialogue about the realities behind what appears to be a glamorous spectacle.
As the premiere date draws closer, anticipation builds regarding the revelations this docuseries may bring to light. It promises to be a significant examination of both the Miss Universe pageant and the wider culture of beauty contests, opening the door to discussions about ethics and accountability in the industry.
“Crown of Deceit: Inside the Miss Universe Scandal” will air on TLC at 8 p.m. ET, marking a moment for viewers to delve into the complexities that often lurk behind the scenes of high-profile pageants. As those involved in the pageant world lend their voices to the conversation, it remains to be seen how this will reshape perceptions of these competitions in the public eye.