The first Miss World, Kiki Hakansson, passed away peacefully in her sleep at her California home on Monday, November 4. Her family confirmed that she was “peaceful, comfortable and well cared for.” This news appears on the official Miss World Instagram account.
This birth produced Kiki Hakansson, who in the year 1951 at the inaugural Miss World that was held in London had the first Miss World when crowned. The event in that year took place at Lyceum Ballroom and marked July 29, had been intended as a once-off event tied to Festival of Britain but later formed a global institution. By winning the title, she started the legacy of the Miss World.
The Miss World pageant took to social media with an emotional tribute as they gave her deep sorrow over passing away. It read, “We extend our heartfelt condolences to all members of Kiki’s family. Sending our love and prayers at this very difficult time.”.
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Her son, Chris Anderson, also described his mother as “genuine, kind, loving,” and added, “She is known and will be missed for her warmth and generosity.” Miss World president Julia Morley also paid tribute, saying, “Kiki was a true lead and so it was fitting that Kiki takes her place in history as the first Miss World.” She further said, “We will continue to celebrate the memories of the first Miss World, Kerstin (Kiki) Hakansson, for eternity.”. She will forever be in our hearts.
Kiki Hakansson’s death marks the end of an era for Miss World, but her legacy as the first winner lives on and inspires generations yet to come. She paved the way for thousands of beauty queens who came after her.
