Kiki Hakansson, the First Miss World and Swedish Beauty Queen, passes away at 95

Kiki Håkansson, the world's first Miss World title winner, has passed away peacefully in her sleep at her home in California at the age of 95. Her family confirmed the news, stating that she "went peacefully, comfortably, and well taken care of." According to her children, she lived a happy life and was surrounded by loved ones at the time of her passing. The entertainment world is mourning her loss, with fans expressing heartbreak over her death.

Deep condolences were expressed to Kiki Håkansson's family on the Miss World Instagram account, which included a picture of her and echoed the family's sentiments. Beauty pageant organizations have paid tribute to her, recognizing her significant contributions to the industry. Mrs. Julia Morley, Chairwoman of the Miss World organization, sent condolences: "We extend our deepest condolences to Kiki's family, sending love and prayers to them in this difficult time." She added, "Kiki was a true pioneer and truly deserving of her place in history as the first Miss World. We will forever honor the memory of Kerstin (Kiki) Håkansson—who will always be in our hearts." Miss World President Julia Morley also said, "Kiki Håkansson's achievements will continue to inspire us to honour her legacy. She will always be in our hearts."

Her son, Chris Anderson, paid tribute to his mother, saying, "She was a genuine, kind and loving person. Her warmth and generosity will always be remembered." Kiki Håkansson's passing marks the end of a chapter in the Miss World pageant, symbolizing the close of an era in the history of beauty pageants. Her contributions will resonate for generations to come, and her memory will always live on in our hearts.

Born on June 17, 1929, in Sweden, Kerstin Margareta "Kiki" Håkansson began her journey in the world of beauty pageants by winning the preliminary final 'Miss World Sweden' in 1951. This victory allowed her to compete in the inaugural Miss World pageant held on July 29, 1951, at the Lyceum Ballroom in London. A Swedish model, she was crowned the first Miss World at this event, marking the beginning of the Miss World legacy.

Her victory laid the foundation for the tradition of competitions like Miss World, which has grown into a globally renowned institution. The Miss World competition is now part of the so-called 'Big Four' beauty pageants, alongside 'Miss Universe,' 'Miss International,' and 'Miss Earth.' Kiki Håkansson is remembered for setting the stage for future pageant queens, having made history as the first woman to be crowned Miss World at the inaugural pageant in London.

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‏‎פוסט משותף על ידי ‏‎Miss World‎‏ (@‏‎missworld‎‏)‎‏

The Miss World contest was originally named the Festival Bikini Contest, conceived as a one-time event tied to the Festival of Britain, with an emphasis on swimsuit advertising. Kiki Håkansson's wearing a bikini at her coronation drew serious condemnation from several countries adhering to strict morality, leading to threats of withdrawal from the Miss World competition. Her attire sparked controversy and drew criticism from the Pope. As a result of the controversy surrounding her crowning, bikinis were temporarily replaced with less revealing swimwear in the Miss World contest starting in 1952.

Although bikinis eventually returned to Miss World, Kiki Håkansson remains the only winner to wear one while being crowned. Her boldness set new standards in beauty pageants and marked her as a pioneer in the industry. She stood out not only for her title but also because she wore a bikini during the crowning ceremony, which sparked significant attention and debate.

With the Miss World crown, Kiki Håkansson not only gained fame but also ushered in a new era of beauty pageants, giving women a platform to showcase their dreams and identity. She opened many paths for women around the world, including India, to fulfill their dreams. Kiki Håkansson faced many challenges in her journey but overcame them with courage and self-confidence. Her life became a guide for girls who wanted to make a name for themselves in the field of beauty pageants.

Kiki Håkansson is established as an iconic figure in both the beauty and cultural landscapes. She set the stage for future pageant queens and became a source of inspiration for women who impressed the world with beauty and confidence. Her life and achievements will remain an example of beauty, determination, and pioneering thinking.

Her passing has become a symbol of the end of an era in the history of beauty pageants. Kiki Håkansson's contributions will resonate for generations to come. As those who knew her have expressed, "Kiki Håkansson's memory will always live on in our hearts." Her legacy continues to inspire, and she will forever be honored as the woman who began the Miss World tradition.

Sources: Rossiyskaya Gazeta, Zoom News, Times Now, ETV Bharat

This article was written in collaboration with generative AI company Alchemiq