A 69 yr old Miss Universe? (Pageants & Ageism)

In 2023 the Miss Universe Organization changed the rules of eligibility. They removed previous age limit restrictions so that contestants 18+ can compete at the pageant. Due to these changes, Jocelyn Cubales is eligible to compete in the Miss Quezon city pageant, which is a qualifying event for Miss Universe Philippines. Other countries have different paths to the national crown, which may include a general casting for the national pageant. What are your thoughts on these new pageant rules of eligibility?
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[@DaniWalker]

We're beginning to see the effects of recent changes within the organization. What are your thoughts on the new eligibility rules? If you enjoy this episode and want to keep up with pageant news, please check out these other episodes >>> bit.ly/3knJQ4k

[@jrelento6632]

Ms. @DaniWalker age is just a number. I have found some timeless beautiful people who can compete in these pageants. Please do consider searching them: Women: Angela Bassett - 65 years old Wendy Ida - 71 Linda Woods Hoyte - 80 Ernestine Shepherd - 87 Men: Chuando Tan - 57 Anthony Varrecchia - 60 Brad W. - 69 Mammootty - 72 These are role models of timeless beauty. It's a yes for the removal of age restriction! God bless us all everyone!

[@neilbruce123]

I love it! Beauty and talent does not stop at size 6 or age 28.If the person is worthy of the crown and has the best performance why would age matter!

[@neilbruce123]

That 1 was pure politics and sadly all systems have it in them.I am glad to see these non sash country getting recognition and making finals and winning.

[@Fan-qu8qy]

@@jrelento6632 cannot forget Christie Brinkley, 69 years of age, Naomi Cambell, Can’t forget Jay-lo. We understand they are entertainers, but the communities we live in we know of some knock outs. Dani you are one of them. We know you are in your 20’s heading to thirty but there are some beauty queens that are 50 and fabulous.

[@jrelento6632]

Thanks for noting that there are a lot of people beyond their 30s who have beauty in them and are deserving of a crown. I was hesitant of the idea before, but now I am all for age inclusivity.

[@mariaclaradelossantos398]

I like the idea that for a woman's dreams, the universe is the limit. Dude there are literal middle aged women that dont look a day over 30. By all means if you feel you can compete with the young ones, go! Thats what prelims are for.

[@DaniWalker]

True, prelims will be a big factor.

[@Itssassafras]

This proves the point that they need to "look young enough" to be competitive. I'll stick to Miss America for now.

[@MelanieGrayRobinson]

As a 53 year old title holder who placed Top 3 at an international pageant last year against women 20 years my junior- I am all for opening up the age limit for MU. I don't think there will be this huge influx of 60 and up entering, but if we get more mature women showing up so that we can get rid of the notion that beauty ends at a certain age, let's do it! Thank you for addressing this issue, Dani. P.S. That judge who thought 25 was too old....😅😅😅😅 WOW.

[@DaniWalker]

I'll be honest, it hurt hearing that. I had so many dreams and still do. It was definitely something I thought about at Miss USA.

[@MelanieGrayRobinson]

@DaniWalker I can imagine that did hurt. It's such a short sighted, thoughtless comment.

[@Fan-qu8qy]

Trust me more will be showing up in their 60’s.

[@NatashaKnowsBeauty]

i think the conversation is whyy is 26 considered old? what made that judge think to score you that way?

[@DaniWalker]

I'm not sure they they thought that. The pageant didn't disclose which judge scored me that way, so I couldn't ask.

[@DaniWalker]

With a 1/20 score I think they had literally anyone else in mind but me lol @@Kalemoore

[@msrain1235]

​@DaniWalker, did they say why or what you needed to work on?

[@pgs3979]

This issue reminds me so much of Cheslie Kryst (RIP). She wrote an essay about being ‘30’ yr old and she described her feeling of getting pressured as if shes running out of time to achieve more in the society. I wonder if these changes of lifting age limits in MU would change her perspective towards herself.

[@somethingmeaningful-dj6vx]

As a woman who is 43 years old, I think you have to choose and specialize where one want to focus in how you can use you skills to help the community, the MU stage can jumpstart a great direction actually. So I hope the age 30 will not limit their mindset. :D

[@crystalevans2123]

This lady is my inspiration! I am 69 as well. I hope she does well.

[@RolandRamirezTV]

True, dreams doesn't have an expiration date.

[@user-nn8sc2bz4d]

I love this topic because before this year I’ve felt like I was at an awkward age to start competing. I’m 32, and was too old to join Miss USA last year, so I competed in a Mrs pageant (since I’m married also). But what I found was I still felt like I had more in common with the Miss pageant delegates (both mentally, physically and stage of life). I was competing against women that had children my own age, and who had also been competing for 20+ yrs since they were misses. It was just an odd situation. I always felt like Miss should be 18-35. Ms 36-55, and then another division 56+ . But now that I’ve competed in Mrs pageants I’ll probably continue doing so as I’m a married woman so it would be weird to go from a Mrs to a miss title

[@jrmarianoy2275]

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. My 96 year old mom will be competing as well.

[@frederickseltzerjr2170]

If I'm not mistaken and I know you will be able to correct me if I'm wrong Dani ... when "computer scoring" began (where each judge could give each state delegate between a 1 & 9.99) with Miss Universe 1978, the composite score was all scores added together and then divided by the numbers of judges. Where I finally wondered about this was at the 1988 Miss USA Pageant and of course I was really paying attention because Miss Maryland, Rowanne Brewer (Miss Photogenic) received a composite score of 7.155, and was a huge gap over Miss Tennessee USA Stephanie Jane Potts, who received a 7.600. But then, Miss Maryland received an 8.500 in swimsuit, before getting the lowest score in evening gown. I know starting with Miss Teen USA 1989 it became similar to Olympic scoring, where the highest and lowest score were thrown out and then the rest of the scores were added and averaged, which as you said, the judge that rudely gave you a 1 (and something tells me that they had a huge bias against you for whatever reason and wanted to show it) would more than likely be thrown out. On this topic, where my personal opinion is that there are women who are in their 40s, 50s, 60s and older that are still some of the most beautiful women in the world ... Sadly, with the word "beauty" to me it has been a word associated with an younger girl/women (late teens to late 20s). It is something that I believe has affected and effected some women's mental health, who truly started to believe that you are not supposed to be beautiful after a certain age. If a 69 year old woman can walk the walk in gown & swimsuit and who can give great articulate answers in interview, why shouldn't she be consider for the title now that the age restriction is no longer in effect. I hope this will show women of all ages, colors, etc that they are beautiful from the time they enter this world until they take their final breath and sadly exit it. xo

[@DaniWalker]

So much info here. I'm not sure about the computer scoring system. It's not something I considered looking into. I'm not sure about that judge and can't speak for them. I only know about their comment that I was "too old." You're right about aging, may women stop seeing themselves as beautiful, although there are so many women are are beautiful regardless of their age.

[@jayeftee]

Dani, This episode was well thought out that you have changed my mind! The removal of age limit will indeed challenge the majority's idea of and about beauty. Now I'm curious and looking forward! One thing, I have a bit of a hard time reconciling this with MU org's intentions. For an organization that needs money, trying to stay relevant, and battling credibility, I don't think this intellectualized reasoning aligns. This will alienate loyal fans and I'm not sure it will increase new fans. Beauty pageants at their very essence of existence is a form of mass audio-visual entertainment to celebrate youth and peak physical beauty. It liberalizes fame for women while creating this exclusive club of physically beautiful women. Fans live their aspirations through their country's reps. Inclusivity is the very opposite of beauty pageants. Inclusivity removes the charm, illusion and magic. Inclusivity removes power from being beautiful. Inclusivity will kill pageants. While many see it as so wrong to be objectified, for me, I see it as power. For centuries wars, history, nation states, decisions big or small, etc., have been greatly influenced by physical, objectified beauty of men and women. For me, that is power! But these days, to use physical beauty or sexuality as power or as an advantage is demonized. Hence, the push for "holistic" beauty or the "complete" package. Why can't beauty pageants just embrace what really it is about - which is about visual, physical, and tactile beauty defined by the times. If I want someone super smart or someone who can establish world peace, I'll go to MENSA or UN, where it is not required to be physically beautiful to be part of. I hope women will not forget that it's ok to be empowered by their youth, physical beauty, and sexuality. I believe pageants will survive the wokeness and political correctness of times if these stay true to their nature and original purpose. (Sorry for this being so long! Did not realize while typing!)

[@DaniWalker]

You bring up lots of great points here. That's why I made the episode. I don't think allowing any age in and of itself is a bad thing, but the question is what it will look like in practice and how will audiences respond. Because if viewership drops and the org fails then soooo many women will miss out on the great opportunities that women of decades past experienced. That will be a huge loss.

[@michaelmaro1962]

i don't wanna give any comment on this recent change, however, this edition will be a very interesting one. i just hope this direction will not hurt the organization in the long run.

[@jeffzest8393]

Aren’t the lowest and highest judge scores taken out before a composite score us calculated? Just as Miss Universe had a contestant last year with a high BMI, a high age could be next for the paegent?

[@DaniWalker]

Some pageants will toss the high and low score, but when it's a local pageant, that'd mean that that the winner was only selected by 3 judges, so they keep all scores.

[@thebrothaj]

since most national title holders have to go through a regional or state preliminary, a lot will be told by if (first) an older contestant wins a prelim and then how she is received and advanced on the national level. some people are already acting like there’s going to be a golden girls top 5 at next years miss universe, which i think is premature. the first question is… is a country bold & brave enough to go there by crowning even a stunning 35-40 year old as their queen?

[@DaniWalker]

Very true, I don't think we'd see a majority of a top 5 that is over 40.

[@emilymcgowan3119]

Finally, someone is talking about it! I am 24, and it's so hard as a contestant in Miss/ms because how do you judge me a 24 against an 18- or a 30 year old. We are all in different life stages and each accomplished in our own ways. I have been a judge and a contestant and no matter what side you are on it's so hard. Dani, you are always so well-spoken on these "hot" topics!

[@DaniWalker]

You're so kind. It is a difficult topic for contestants and fans. Sooo many opposing opinions.

[@olebadajit3210]

They should also consider dropping the MISS in their title and change to MS because the former is reserved only for unmarried, young women if we are to be politically correct about it

[@lifespanwellnessbeauty-60i64]

I'm 63 years old and will be competing in the Ms. Senior Michigan Pageant in July, 2024. I'll be speaking up against ageism in general. In my opinion 60 is the New 40! I refuse to accept age-based limitations!😊

[@mrtophs]

I am pretty confident we could easily see some 30+ year olds mop the floor at Miss USA and Universe. Also if we have a 50 something year old win, you know that women will absolutely out of this world stunning. What I personally would love to see is Miss USA all stars with you in it ;)

[@DaniWalker]

You're so sweet! I would if that were an option!

[@Fan-qu8qy]

Dani that judge should have been disqualified and never asked to come back again. That judge did not like you, if you blink the wrong way that judge would have poo poo on your performance. I know our director would have disqualified that judge promptly.

[@DaniWalker]

Fortunately the other scores allowed me to continue through the competition and to win

[@DrishtiRatanpal]

Hey @DaniWalker , I think that short heighted girls should also be given chance in the Pageantry. Its not their fault that their height is unable to reach even 5'4''. There are so many factors (especially genetic factor) affecting the height. And moreover, if we can considering golden age people as beautiful then whats wrong with the short heighted ones. This would be unfair if we don't give opportunity to those girls who have potential, talent & can actually stand for an advocacy but they are judged only on the basis of their height. Even I'm a pageant aspirant & most pageant don't have place for short girl like me who is not even 5'3'' in her 17s . But I think that now its high time that we sacrifice our dreams just because of our short height.

[@DaniWalker]

Height is another thing out of our control. The shortest MU contestant was 5'2 I believe. She competed in 2012. You can still compete at 5'3. I'm 5'7 and I thought I'd be so short at Miss USA. I was surprised when I saw a handful of queens taller than me, the rest were my height or shorter and it did not matter. The queens often look taller on stage, but you'd be surprised how small many of them are. Don't let your height deter you.

[@DrishtiRatanpal]

@@DaniWalker you are absolutely right, but I'm from India & most of the pageant organizations in India (especially miss diva) have height criteria 5'3" or 5'4" & above. So that's where the problem lies, like even if I feel confident in my height, the system won't allow me to participate!

[@Kaiwaza]

I think you've hit the issues pretty much on the head here. In addition to USA state pageants, I have also judged several pageants with either a wide range of age divisions or "Ms." division with a large stretch of eligibility. I've always said there just no way you can compare interviewing a 22 year-old and a 45 year-old...and even the higher ages. The older woman have have so much more depth given most have experienced deaths, divorces, child rearing, career highs and lows, health issues...there's just no comparison. Since the viewing audiences never see the judges interviews in any pageant, the advancement of older contestants with less dynamic stage presentations would be odd or might seem "pandering." I have very mixed feelings about the direction this could take the future Miss Universe Pageants. It is a recognition of the varied types of beauty that exist. Do we want to see a show of such divergent types competing against one another for a title? I don't know.

[@DaniWalker]

Oh yes, great point about pandering. Many people still don't understand how important that interview really is and that you cannot predict what a contestant will say. I can remember one contestant who looked stunning walking in the interview room, but she acted bored and annoyed through the entire interview. She looked amazing on stage too, but didn't place because of interview. Everyone was confused because they didn't know just how bizarre the interview was and that there was no way she'd advance.

[@adrianofsydney]

It is just sad that some pageant vloggers are ageist and not progressive. People are living longer look young for their age. There should be no space for ageism.

[@eMCizzle1]

Usually the scoring part of a pageant eliminates the lowest and highest judges' scores per contestant, and then the total score is averaged out by the rest of the judges. I kind of wish they would explain the scoring system like they used to back in the 80s and early 90s. I also wish they could show each judge's score per contestant, with the total average score...also like before.

[@jrelento6632]

Showing judges scores eliminates bias and favoritism. This is a good idea for future pageants.

[@jayveecee]

I always believe that there is place and time for every thing.

[@theplaybillbunny6305]

I think some good qualifications to focus on in this new era is a stricter focus on the work done by the contestant and how passionate they are about that work/what they can show for it. I’m not a pageant girlie, however I know the work I done is so many times compared to the abundant work many women have done in their 42 years when I’m only 24. I think a contestant’s work, their passion for it, and their impact is so important when representing pageantry/women. Also, charisma and how she communicates and delivers information. How well read or up to date with current events and issues. Expand beauty standards to not just be surface level, and also encompass the beauty of the minds and souls of contestants.

[@Fan-qu8qy]

Love the idea of ageless beauties. It’s about time the world sees how unbelievable beautiful women are at any adult age. Brains, Beauty, Energetic Tone Bodies.

[@marylust5409]

Love ur videos and this topic! I believe age is just a number, not sure about 69 yrs old in Miss Universe organization. I was runner up to miss Florida USA in 1972. We are all beautiful at any age! I have maintained great health, I own my own health care business now; feel pageantry, modeling, past flight attendant and now CEO. I’m still working:) love ur channel.

[@crisponcho12]

At the same time it’s like saying fatfobia in triatlons. There are spaces for everyone, however when you compare “beauty” from different generations, it’s gonna be diff and lose the objectivity of things. It wouldn’t be a fair competition

[@debbieandmax]

Dear Dani: I just subscribed to your channel and I am so very impressed with your on camera presence and more. You have such up to date knowledge about the pageant industry that I had to write you! I was a former spokesmodel when I was your age, before the era of internet influencers. I did some judging of Midwest based pageants as a former public relations director for a northern Ohio based modeling agency, back in the 1990's. Upon early retirement (from teaching) I entered the seniors division of Miss USA and became 1st runner up Miss Senior Oregon USA 2018 at age 65. It may have been same time as your experience from fall 2017 thru 2018 in your state division. I have some interesting things I'd love to share with you . Blessings to you on an excellent channel. You are truly helping so many people at all stages of life! Debbie

[@DaniWalker]

Thank you so much Debbie, I appreciate this! :) Congratulations on your placement!

[@Dric_MagiC]

My take on this since the age limit is lifted and we cannot do anything about except to adapt in the situation. Score them base on what's the criteria of what the organization is looking for. She should have the best resume and the best stage performance to compete. If she cannot do both or hasn't any of the 2 then she cannot win. Make life simple. That's all.

[@makelovenotwar9941]

If a woman is her 30s or 40s but still physically fit, has charismatic beauty, and has great presentation skills, why can't they compete?

[@lifespanwellnessbeauty-60i64]

I'm competing at age 63!😊

[@ryanlandon7817]

My Question - Is pageantry the only platform for woman empowerment? I've lost interest in pageantry since it has become a one for all and a all for one (Specifically speaking about Miss Universe). It's taken away that fierceness of the competition. I believe it still needs to be beauty with brains as the complete package and I'm even happy to see the age limit at 35. This should be for upcoming younger generation to battle it out on the stage. I also don't think mothers should be allowed to enter. It's just take away the fierceness of the competition and what we have loved watching for so long. I have been so disappointed that I have unfollowed most of the pageant forums on Instagram etc because it's just lost it's appeal with all this ridiculous woke and 'inclusiveness'. If you have a dream at 50 or 70 years old, find a platform that lines up with you realistically because you are never going to compete in the beauty department with girls in their 20's. What are judges even comparing - apples with apples or apples with pawpaws? Just just doesn't make sense and for that reason I'm out!

[@nikita5662]

I think women join pageant for validation and feed their ego. Woman empowerment is just a front.

[@makelovenotwar9941]

Who told you that? Pageants never claimed that they are the ONLY platform for woman empowerment.

[@NJ_mom_NJ]

I'm concerned about it from a business perspective because, after all, this is a business. Too many drastic changes all at once is rarely a good business strategy, in general. It confuses the historical fan base, which in this case was already in decline. While the changes may attract a new base of contestants, I don't see it translating into a broader fan base, at least not for a long time, if successful at all. Inclusivity is a beautiful thing, but the historical premise of the pageant was built on exclusive parameters and that's what built its fan base. It's a dilemma of opposing ideologies. Will the 'loyal' fans continue to support a pageant that is unrecognizable to them? I'm concerned. Staying relevant (especially in our modern political climate) is important, but I think this one is a serious crap shoot. In my opinion, they should have started by raising the limit to say, 35. I think that would have appealed to the current fan base and prospective newcomers alike. I'll be a fan forever, no matter what, but people these days are foaming at the mouth over the whole "wokeness" issue and I'm afraid that all of the changes all at once will unfortunately put a bad taste in a lot of peoples' mouths. I hope not.

[@DaniWalker]

Too many changes in a short about of time makes me concerned as well. It's a huge risk to alienate your existing audience.

[@AndreDMalan1966]

I think discarding the highest and lowest score is a decent way to eliminate favoritism or bias. 1/20 is an insult. They used this method in the 80s and 90s. Getting to the point... even children's pageants have age groups to give everyone a fair chance, and because it just does not not make sense to judge a 5-year-old against a 13-year-old. We need to go back to the origins of pageants. Both Miss World and Miss Universe pageants started as swimwear promotions. They evolved into pageants that gave young women a platform from which to establish a career and then social responsibility projects. They were called "Miss" for a reason. As a gay man of almost 60, I've been an avid pageant fan for 40 years. When I was young, I loved that it gave young women the chance to get a head start and today I still love this celebration of capable, successful YOUTH. I have entered and won Silver Fox and Mature Man contests and loved it. I would NEVER be naive or vain enough to think that I could compete against 30-year-olds. Life is a wonderful book and each chapter needs to be read, enjoyed, and relished. It's SAD that older people would want to re-read a chapter gone by rather than relish the chapter they are in. Even with regard to motherhood... its a choice and a chapter that should be sipped like fine wine. I shudder at the thought that a mother would remove herself from the lives of her children for a year to pursue a dream from a previous chapter. It detracts from the parenting experience and it robs children of a parent for a year, which could leave psychological scarring.

[@ServandoIV]

Well said. That should be a question for mothers, “Who will look after your children during your reign.”

[@longbranch11207]

I am all for a 69 year competing . Why not?

[@mimiofsincity]

My grand mother is planning also to join beauty pageant and she is 82 years old but still in shape except for some saggy arm.

[@neilbruce123]

Wow, that USA post WAS PERFECTION!

[@andreibenedictmendiola1553]

you always have such a tactful response to these more controversial topics 🙏 would you ever do a video about plastic surgery in pageants?

[@meagan.phillip]

The main reason for doing this is because contestants felt the constant pressure of aging out and running out of time to achieve this goal and it only contributes to the stereotype that women will stop being valuable after 30. The same reason they lifted the marriage and motherhood rules. Women are still beautiful, talented, and make excellent leaders as they mature. I also don’t think we’ll see a bunch of extremes happening like a lot of people have assumed, if a 70 year old is interested in competing and will have strong interview, swimsuit, and evening gown scores that’s their choice. This simply opens the opportunity to a larger population instead of creating limitations

[@michaelromero7357]

Well said but I think there is an immense differance between 28 and 69. Let's keep it real.

[@DaniWalker]

Yes, there's a bit difference. That's why I, and others, have difficulty judging Ms. competitions with such a range of ages.

[@brihmendiola4347]

"Beauty is in the eye of the beholder." --Shakespeare

[@miss.paula1111]

While some of the critics think that age and beauty can't coexist. I think that this looks like a cash grab. Especially since they announced financial troubles

[@DaniWalker]

I agree that the timing of the announcement isn't great for optics.

[@MjYosh]

That one judge was NOT being very objective to give you a 1 out of 20.... that is extreme. Judges like that should be allowed to judge because they are letting solely their biases affect their scores

[@DaniWalker]

I thought it was extreme too 🙈

[@MjYosh]

Correction: Should NOT allowed**

[@Sam_Luy0]

Age restrictions against minors should also be lifted. Senior citizens are now allowed to join. Why not toddlers or babies? Or a single celled organism bound to mutate and become a human being after conception?

[@ajsy1090]

1. There is still Miss Teen USA pageant 2. They still needed to follow American labor laws had an under 18 won MU.

[@trinity9560]

😂😂😂

[@kimdufresne63]

I think this is a wonderful topic. I appreciate that there will be opposing positions on this topic because the standards have been in place for years, and people don’t usually adapt to change so readily. I appreciate one of the comments about forced inclusion. However, I see it differently. I feel that why wouldn’t we want to be inclusive; that’s not a bad thing. With so much division in the world already, anything we can do to create an environment of inclusion is a good thing. Especially with the perfect point that was made when she shared that Miss Universe’s post essentially was highlighting that there is no expiration to any of our dreams. I do a lot of volunteering for many organizations because my life has been personally impacted by each one. Therefore, I always want to contribute to these organizations through my advocacy work to help make a tangible difference. ♥️🙏🏻♥️

[@All_things_politics]

My take on this why doesn't MUO make a different competition for different age divisions. So it can be more fair for everyone

[@DaniWalker]

I feel like that could be a great option too. There could be a Ms. or Mrs. part of the brand.

[@deddyson]

Agreed

[@ajsy1090]

Jocelyn finished in the Top 10 at MUPH Quezon City finals.

[@DaniWalker]

Congratulations to her!

[@seraphim7279]

Nope, Dani, u did a good job! I like u as social media influencer...U r never too old to fulfill your advocacy! Here in the Phils. we just had Ms. Jocelyn, 69 years old, and became finalist in Miss Univ Phils Quezon City. And in my hometown Cebu City our delegate as Ms. Univ Phils Cebu City who is 34 yrs old already.You see?

[@DaniWalker]

[@seraphim7279]

U r one of my favorite pageantry vloggers...keep it up!

[@maygrantz4426]

Age come with wisdom and age gracefully and why limit yourself to have a dream if you have something to offer and inspire others that you are not define with age but what you can do. Anyway, Dani walker would you consider to be an aspirant contestant of Miss Universe?

[@DaniWalker]

I already competed at Miss USA so I’m no longer eligible unless USA changes their rules.

[@LifeOdysseyMotivation]

Nice topic Dani. I'm still a bit skeptical about the reason and motivation for changing the Miss U rules recently. Many of us are saying over and over again that there are pageants for women of age, married, and seniors, for the trans and gays. There are already pageants for these aspiring queens. Why the owner is staining this prestigious pageant. The owner is just ruining the image of the Miss U pageant we know as the most prestigious and exclusive for the young empowered and biologically born female contestants. We got it, women's empowerment, giving the chance to continue the dream that was put on hold, working on advocacies, inspiring others to follow their dreams no matter how many times they fail. Yes, these characteristics of a person or a contestant know no age limit. Is the owner taking advantage of these because it's getting traction of opinions, reactions from different people, and critics on both sides? This way the owner will be happy that Miss U is getting loud and noisy because they will be the talk of the town. One word, "publicity". Is this the core motivation? No wonder the Miss U is getting downhill.

[@AngelGarcia-py5fg]

Hey Dani. You're so smart and I really love watching your videos 😍 😍 😍 Looking forward to see you back on stage. In a Miss Universe stage 🎉🎉🎉. Love from the Philippines 🇵🇭🇺🇸

[@DaniWalker]

Thank you so much for watching the channel!

[@acnixon]

I became more accepting after listening to Catriona Gray about older or senior women joining beauty pageants and it was even reinforced after listening to Dani Walker about beauty and aging in this episode. Afterall,I realized beauty isn't about youthfulness and that understanding is obsolete.

[@taylorbryant4544]

Another division should be added as I think women in their 40s 50s 60s have a lot to offer but what they can give to the title can honestly be different just because of experience ,age, issues ,careers etc. it’s the same with teen and miss. Miss teen USA is choosen on Slightly different expectations and what the organization is looking for compared to Miss USA. So while I want older women to have a chance, I just think grouping it all together can be a little overwhelming.

[@ajayla]

Dani can you make a video about the dates of the state pageants they have just been released! can you start a series where you recap all the state pageant when they received the new titleholders!! that would be so cool! i love to hear your opinions on the upcoming titleholders!!!💗

[@DaniWalker]

I wish I had the capacity to add 51 videos on top of all my other coverage :( Plus most of the pageants you have to pay to watch. They can get close to, or over, $100.

[@mayav6845]

Hey Dani please clarify something for me, if I am 30 years old or 31 I can compete to win miss USA 2025-2026? And it will be okay? Just curious thanks! Great video as always!

[@DaniWalker]

Yes, you can compete since there's no age restrictions.

[@mayav6845]

@@DaniWalker thank you!

[@davidgoodliff4486]

I represented my country (England) in an international pageant which was televised and had a sold-out 400 strong audience when I was 60 years old! They have promised I can go back when I am 70 (I am 62 this week!) I got 40/40 in preliminary talent then won on-stage interview to pull away although eventually I lost to a hotter contestant but not without a fight! It's what the old fox knows!! Secondly, I sat on a panel where an Indian actress gave a girl 0/5 for "impact on-stage". Given another contestant got stage fright and didn't come on-stage for that round at all (no wonder with judges like that!) I felt the one who at least came on-stage she should have been given at least one point.

[@DaniWalker]

That's amazing!! Congratulations on your success!! I agree with you, I like to have a base score for everyone because some contestants are too afraid to step on stage, and that should be worth something.

[@deathballad]

Hey Dani, a little off-topic here, but have you seen Nia Sanchez's latest podcast about her almost being fired as Miss USA? Wish you could explore those behind the scenes issue that nobody else had talked about.

[@raven2466]

This is critical thinking right here! You raised many good points and questions, they truly made me think more about how we view (and judge) beauty. Very thought-provoking conversation!

[@DaniWalker]

It's a very multi-faceted topic.

[@grf123]

I'm all for inclusiveness, but Miss pageants need to be capped at 32 to 35. They need to be exclusively for young women only. Im all for married, trans, intersex or mothers, but pregnancy during reign and mother's of children younger than 4 should be not allowed as these years shape psyche of a child for entire life.

[@layceevierra8364]

I would love some help in 2024 watching these or knowing as they come up so I know to keep an eye out for all this great fun. I only watched Miss Universe last year and I want to see more this year as they happen lol

[@nikita5662]

With the current changes in MU, the pageant no longer feels grand and prestigious. It's like an old bag that you no longer care if it get scratches or used by others.

[@DaniWalker]

😭 I'm so sad to hear that.

[@squishybear5728]

WHO CARES? Let people live the dream of competing. Everyone knows that person will not win the pageant. SMH

[@irwin3236]

As you demonstrated, there are pageants for women of every age division that allows them to showcase themselves, to voice their views, and to influence others. Similarly, there are pageants for trans, married women, and mothers. As a typical Miss Universe delegate cannot participate in those pageants, why should those delegates be able to participate at Miss Universe. We have seen "older" contestants do well at Miss Universe in the last decade or so because they can bring their experience to the pageant, because they have confidence that comes with age. But as you stated, how can this be fair to either of them. I think most fans would feel uncomfortable seeing an 18-year-old woman compete against someone in her 60s. I believe judges and pageant leaders would allow the older women to become "tokens," allowing them a spot in the finals to show that the pageant has changed with the times. But this would not be fair to the older lady, whose differences would be displayed alongside a woman is physically perfect. I believe the older ladies could bring so.much to a pageant and to fans, but let them do it on their own stage to be fair to everyone. Recently, the Golden Bachelor proved that older ladies are vibrant, funny, confident, and beautiful. But if they had women in their 20s competing with them, viewers would find the show too creepy to watch.

[@DaniWalker]

You brought up a great example, the Golden Bachelor!! I know people said age is just a number but if you took that show for example, and added in alllll sorts of ages, I don't think viewers would have had a great response to it.

[@samb3303]

This is ridiculous, period. Forced inclusion is not okay, no matter how people try to justify it. The circus continues

[@kaylabell6625]

When i was little ( i live in the south keep that in mind) i was doing a pageant and im mixed but i had this one girl competing with me and she won and a judge stood up and said shes not suppose to win because shes dark skinned and named the little white girl she wanted to win and the girl who was my friend was indian so she was a little dark. It was a bad day for that judge because my friends momma cussed her out for being racist

[@rad7846]

You said it best, redefining how the world sees beauty is winning because of MUO pushing to break that barrier.

[@ghellostrangertito4032]

Thank you for making this video 😭

[@DaniWalker]

You're so welcome!

[@martylarty]

Hi Dani, love your content and I have used so many of your tips in my pageant career! I was so excited to hear about the age limit removal because I'm 29. Although, I'm a bit confused. I live in Florida -- is the Miss USA system following the old age range? Do countries get to decide their own age limits? Can you please advise? Thanks for your channel, I love being able to find my pageant community here. xx, Martine

[@DaniWalker]

USA and it's state pageants are under the Universe umbrella so they follow the same rules. There's no age restrictions for Florida USA.

[@TheBrookeJ]

I think at one point the expectations of a Miss USA has changed and they wanted more career accomplished women and that usually comes with being out of college and in the work force for years. Rarely do you see a 19 year old that’s an attorney, rocket scientist, or have their own clothing line, or business. Can’t speak for other countries though.

[@user-pv6rh9qg8t]

How will you compare A beauty of young and old if your criteria is beauty?

[@ralphwaldomc]

Three things that Miss Universe should do: 1. Take a good look at itself and really try to find its identity or branding. 2. Based on the outcome of the above, revisit its judging criteria if it is still aligned with the branding. 3. Carefully pick the members of its selection committee and make sure that they are aware of what Miss Universe is really looking for in a titleholder, again based on the branding. I feel that MU is going through some sort of identity crisis and it has to figure out soonest what the title and the organization is about or hopes to become.

[@gadijahapollis4200]

In South Africa theres no age limits to pageants..the age groups start with Tiny,little miss,pre teen,Junior teen,teen,miss,Mrs and then granny age group..so south Africans wont b fased by a much older contestant coz we use to it

[@makkimakk8340]

Pageant mainly is a show it’s all about visuals. Causes are on the sides u can’t watch what was happening all the time after coronation.

[@mi_vishwajeet]

I don't understand that how can a 24 year old women judge anyone , If its about age then judges should be above 28 , like 2023 Nadia fereria was judge and she is just 24 year old , how can she judge anyone without no experience . There were so many women out there who can judge , but miss universe is declining with low standards , As you see age limit should be 40 not should be removed , Many of the pageant fans are switching mu to mgi which is not good for society and world's future ! Ann khun is not making the good decisions , I think IMG was good . Even trump era was best than this women . She is destroying Miss universe ....

[@jasonk2662]

Please talk about the recent Miss Global

[@romelofalla9924]

This is the result of halloo the universe's announcement, where everyone can join, sure even if you're a hunchback if you can fight to slay the ramp well go for it.

[@hidiyakikliuka2792]

I got worse scores too... It brought me to places like you 🎉❤

[@user-hb8yu8yt9d]

Wow that one judge that gave you a 1 I hope that they have the life they deserve

[@DaniWalker]

Oh my goodness 🙈it’s okay, things still worked out for me 🫶🏻

[@0210fnunez]

I'm still torn with the elimination of age restrictions, I don't think you can judge as equals a lady in her 20's with a mrs. For me Miss Universe should make maybe a whole other pageant for the elderly women.

[@DaniWalker]

I really struggled with it. I gave equally high scores in interview, regardless of age. But when it came to on-stage comps, I couldn't deny the skill and execution of poses, turns, and transitions of younger contestants, so they scored higher and in-turn that prevents older contestants from moving forward.

[@edwardrayrico2991]

The question is what's the chance that she will win the title? I hope they were not being use to make noise for the pageant

[@user-eo6zn6xn4e]

0:09 At least natural born woman❤ the age just a number 😅😅😅 Dreams do come true to her ❤❤❤ Best of Luck 👏👏👏

[@invictus4549]

Dani, wha gwan ? This is my 2 cents . The no age limit can work if Miss Universe actually judge the candidates based on what they say they are looking for in a Queen . Beauty and empowerment transient age, and body shape. It should not be about walking pattern on stage and eye contact with cameras . Michelle Obama could be Miss Universe . Miss world has a somewhat similar challenge with Judging candidates from different cultural beauty standards and they manage to get the best women in their top five and a real Beauty Queen that reigns and not a title holder . One Love from Jamaica .

[@melvinjohnubarro7056]

I agree on everything

[@Rowgasmic]

I think it’s fine to include more people to be able to compete. The thing they need to really fine tune is to find what the qualifications are to win, like what are they looking for? Do they want someone who can perform? Do they want someone good at speaking? It needs to be consistent. Because when the different countries are crowing to fit the criteria of the winner and then the organization changes what they want then the sent delegate no longer has a chance.

[@DaniWalker]

Yes, that was my point as well. The criteria would need to be adjusted so that it's fair for everyone because so many times in pageantry contestants have been criticized for being, or looking, "too old." Now that age is not a restriction, it shouldn't count against a contestant.

[@user-sn2oq4qt7b]

Quezon city is the biggest city and the city of stars. Hollywood of the ph

[@zidvicious6047]

Nobody wants drastic changes to an established norm. Equity over equality always.

[@VictoriaOpallaManlegromd]

Amazing!!!👏

[@dewraemee]

I'm all for inclusivity and all but in pageantry we can't deny that physical appearances still matter one way or another. What criteria would you use to judge a 25 yr old vs a 65 woman in swimwear? It would make sense to extend the age limit to 35 maybe but beyond is a bit of a stretch to say it's a fair competition for woman's empowerment and all. This also goes for the Q A and judging the responses of someone with 20-30 yr more life experiences.. Miss Universe is really becoming more of a 'cooking show' unfortunately

[@norjinblue3536]

Please talk about the winner of Miss IloIlo

[@bibianaguadalupeislasherre9880]

In Latin America, some people and pageant fans are opposed, feel alienated or don't like the new changes because it's "Ruining" the essence of the Miss Universe pageant and that it's just "Inclusión Forzada" or "Forced Inclusion" in English according to people who are conservative or lean on the right. They think that those groups (i.e., married women, mothers, divorced women, plus size women, trans women and older women) should have their own separate pageants.

[@acnixon]

What do you say about the Miss Universe - Philippines 2024 edition gathering the best of the best this year including former national titleholders competing again for MUP. Who's your bet so far?This is going to be a showdown!

[@gata_salvaje69]

Can we have the name of that judge?😂

[@DaniWalker]

hahahaha

[@ShanShan-tp6nt]

It really is no issue for me. If they want to join, then let them. Age is definitely just a number. Because at the end of the day, its still a competition. Whether they advance or not is up to the judges. I also believe everyone should be scored in the same standard, that's the purpose of a competition. Saying you should score an older woman differently because they can't execute a routine better is the same as scoring a younger woman. That's the point of the competition, you show your skill and what you can bring to the table and if you fail to advance then be a good sport. This is what judges and preliminaries are for. To sum it up, I believe age should not matter because a competition is a competition.

[@edmundcasey7765]

NO DISCRIMINATION!!!, BUT KNOW WHEN TO SAY WHEN, KNOW WHAT IS APPROPRIATE AND WHAT IS REDICULOUS. . . .

[@hernancano8681]

They have to consider changing the title Miss Universd by Mix Circus Universe to be coherent!

[@papapeethehunks]

Age doesn't matter. What about babies or toddlers competing at Ms. Universe?

[@crystalevans2123]

Miss Universe is a pageant that typically features tall women who are professional models. Honestly, I don’t know very many older women who fit into this category.

[@poptv1762]

If there are, then they should join

[@ardeyscoveriesphards8121]

❤

[@eb4501]

Looking forward to see grandmas in their swimsuit ang long gown competition in Mexico.. anyone would like to spend money for plane tickets? Show and accomodations just to watch them live? Hahah

[@kenzogiltendez4465]

I'm sure it will be chaotic period!