Telemundo is raising the stakes in the world of pageantry with the launch of its groundbreaking reality competition, Miss Universe Latina, El Reality, where for the first time ever, the U.S. Latina representative for Miss Universe 2025 will be chosen on live television. The show brings together two iconic Miss Universe winners—Alicia Machado (Venezuela, 1996) and Zuleyka Rivera (Puerto Rico, 2006)—alongside beloved telenovela superstar Aracely Arámbula, to mentor and judge a new generation of Latina queens.
A Star-Studded Panel: Beauty, Brains, and Drama
Hosted by the ever-charming Jacqueline Bracamontes, the show features Machado and Rivera as team captains, each guiding a group of contestants through the intense world of pageantry.
Arámbula, joined by designer David Salomón and actor Fabián Ríos, completes the panel of judges who, along with the public's vote, will decide who advances and who leaves the mansion each week.
In an exclusive interview with The Latin Times, Alicia Machado shared her excitement:
"It's an honor to guide these young Latinas. I know firsthand what it's like to chase a dream far from home. My goal is to help them stay true to themselves and shine with their own light."
Zuleyka Rivera echoed the sentiment, saying:
"Winning Miss Universe changed my life. We're not just looking for beauty here, but for women with purpose and vision. I can't wait to see which Latina will conquer the world next."
Aracely Arámbula, who brings her signature warmth and candor to the judging panel, told us:
"I've played many roles of women overcoming adversity in telenovelas, but nothing compares to the real stories of these contestants. There's passion, pride, and resilience in every challenge."
Thirty Latinas, One Crown
The show features 30 contestants from across the U.S., each representing the diversity, strength, and beauty of Latina women. Living together in a Miami mansion, the contestants will face weekly challenges in runway, public speaking, leadership, and cultural knowledge. The competition promises high drama, emotional moments, and plenty of surprises, with social media star Sebastián Villalobos offering exclusive behind-the-scenes access.
Host Jacqueline Bracamontes told The Latin Times:
"This show is a celebration of our roots and the new generation of Latinas ready to make their mark. I'm thrilled to be part of this historic moment for our community."
A Crown Like No Other
At a glitzy Miami launch event, Telemundo unveiled the winner's crown—a dazzling piece adorned with emeralds and rubies, symbolizing the teams led by Machado and Rivera, as well as the richness and diversity of the U.S. Latina community.
A Cultural Milestone
Miss Universe Latina, El Reality marks a major step forward for Latina representation on U.S. television and the international stage. "We want the world to see the intelligence, strength, and beauty of U.S. Latinas," Machado affirmed.
As the competition heats up, one thing is clear: the journey will be filled with inspiration, empowerment, and plenty of Latin flavor. Who will become the first Miss Universe Latina? America will be watching—and voting—every step of the way.
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