The very first-ever Miss World, Kiki Hakansson died on Monday, November 4, at the age of 95. She died in her sleep at her home in California. Her family confirmed she has passed away “peacefully, comfortably, and well taken care of”.
The official Miss World Instagram account announced this news through a public update.
Born in Sweden, Kiki Hakansson made history in 1951 when she became the first Miss World during the inaugural pageant in London. The pageant took place on July 29, 1951, at the Lyceum Ballroom and was initially planned as a one-time event tied to the Festival of Britain. The competition, however, assumed the slot of an annual event, and Kiki’s triumph marked what would evolve into an institution across the globe.
Her death was also mourned on the official Instagram page. “We extend our deepest sympathies to all Kiki’s family. Sending our love and offering our prayers at this difficult time,” the post read.
Chris Andersen, Kiki’s son, provided an email statement offering a few words about his mother: “Kiki was real, kind, loving and fun,” he wrote. “She had a brilliant sense of humor and wit and a big heart.” He added, “Everyone who knew her will remember her for her warmth and generosity.”
Julia Morley, Chairwoman of Miss World, had this to say of Kiki’s legacy: “Kiki was one of the true originals. And it was fitting that Kiki would go down in history as the very first Miss World,” she said. Morley added, “We will continue through eternity to celebrate the memory of the very first-ever Miss World, Kerstin (Kiki) Hakansson, forever in our hearts.”
With the death of Kiki Hakansson, a generation for the Miss World contest comes to an end. But future generations will remember her as the first-ever winner of the contest. She was not only a trendsetter, giving the stage for further pageant queens. But also an iconic figure in global culture. The services and contribution she gave to the world of beauty pageants.
ANI
