Guatemalan Pageant Queen And TV Host Raquel Escalante Tragically Dies At 28

Guatemalan beauty queen and television host Raquel Escalante has died at just 28 years old after a long health battle, her employer confirmed. Escalante, who earned national recognition as Miss Intercontinental Guatemala 2021, had been open about her struggle with cervical cancer, documenting her journey with her followers and the communities she touched through her work. The heartbreaking news was first announced in late November by TV Azteca Guate, where she worked as a host.

In a touching tribute, the network remembered Escalante as a radiant presence both on and off-screen. "Her charisma, her joy, and that special light that always accompanied her made every moment by her side something unique and memorable," the tribute read. "Today, we bid farewell to a colleague and friend who left a huge imprint on our hearts. Her smile, her energy, and her passion for communicating will continue to inspire us every day."

In August 2024, Escalante revealed she had been hospitalized due to decreasing hemoglobin levels, marking one of several health updates she shared publicly. By October, her cousin confirmed she had been diagnosed with cervical cancer earlier in the year, prompting an outpouring of concern and support from fans, viewers, and members of the pageant community.

A GoFundMe account was launched to help ease the mounting cost of her medical care. "We are reaching out to all kind-hearted people who wish to support her with her medical expenses, as Raquel is very ill," the fundraiser read. "She has spent most of her time in the hospital since February and has had to pay a lot of money in hospitals. Her adoptive family has helped her, however, there are situations that are beyond our control."

Escalante's social media presence remained strong throughout her battle, and supporters say she continued to radiate gratitude, grace, and faith despite the physical toll.

Escalante's passing lands at a turbulent moment for the global pageant community, arriving just weeks after a major scandal erupted within the Miss Universe Organization.

Former Miss Universe judge Omar Harfouch has gone public with accusations against the organization, claiming serious misconduct in the days leading up to the competition. Harfouch shocked viewers and insiders when he abruptly resigned on November 18, alleging that the Top 30 finalists were pre-selected by what he described as an "impromptu jury."

The Miss Universe Organization swiftly denied the accusations, but Harfouch doubled down.

One day after Miss Mexico Fátima Bosch was crowned Miss Universe 2025 on November 21, Harfouch announced on Instagram that he had entered the early stages of pursuing a formal complaint. "I have officially consulted one of the leading law firms in New York to examine the potential filing of a formal complaint before the Office of the Attorney General against the Miss Universe Organization," he wrote.

He said the potential issues under review include fraud, abuse of power, corruption, deception, breach of contract, conflict of interest, and emotional and reputational damages. Speaking to PEOPLE, Harfouch added that he and his team had intentionally waited until the winner was announced before moving forward.

He stated that they "were waiting to see if Miss Mexico won before we started to pursue legal action, and she did win." His motive, he says, is to "bring justice to contestants, especially the 106 countries who were kicked out three days before the show by a mysterious 'entity' [the impromptu jury]."

In a statement posted to Miss Universe's official Instagram on November 18, the organization categorically denied Harfouch's allegations.

As the pageant community mourns the loss of Raquel Escalante, a rising star, beloved host, and devoted advocate for her home country, it now also finds itself facing one of its most public controversies in years. Escalante's legacy, rooted in kindness, determination, and a passion for communication, continues to inspire those who knew her and those who followed her journey.

Meanwhile, the Miss Universe scandal continues to unfold, raising questions about transparency, fairness, and the future of global pageantry.