The much-anticipated Miss Universe 2024 ceremony took place almost two weeks ago, with Danish contestant Victoria Kjer Theilvig taking the crown. In the days leading up to the thrilling finale, the contestants participated in various events and activities, giving them a chance to bond and interact.
During this time, contestants’ videos spread on social media, attracting additional attention Celini Santos, Miss Dominican Republic. While many have praised her poise and beauty, her attitude has become the subject of controversy online, with some critics finding it controversial. Now, Cellini has broken her silence on the matter.
© Hector VivasCellini addressed the controversy during an interview Telemundo’s TodayWhere the host and former Miss Universe Andrea Meza asked him. Reflecting on his performance, he explained, “The job is done. I feel satisfied with what I was able to do.”
She admits there are aspects she will reconsider, such as “managing my nerves and emotions while on that stage.” Still, Cellini expressed pride in fulfilling a dream she had cherished since she was 13, adding, “Thank God, I was able to fulfill that dream.”
Cellini also spoke candidly about how the social media backlash has affected him. He suggested that some of the videos being circulated may be taken out of context, emphasizing the pressures candidates face online. “I would tell people not to take everything on social media so seriously. Don’t let the comments get to you because they affect us as candidates, as young women,” she shared.
© IG: @celineesantofriassThe impact of criticism goes beyond words on a screen. “Also, psychologically, it was very sad for me,” Cellini admitted. Reflecting on how manipulated content can distort the truth, he says, “Every time I’ve gone on social media and seen a comment or a video that could be manipulated, it hurts. At the end of the day, it’s not about what happens – it’s about the context in which it happens and the message it conveys.”
A key moment that drew criticism was when Cellini broke protocol by simply announcing her own name instead of her country’s. While some saw this as contempt, others believed it was a sign of nerves in a high-pressure environment. Additional clips have circulated online, suggesting that she sometimes sought the spotlight, even at the expense of her fellow contestants. These moments have given rise to accusations of arrogance, although they can be misunderstood given the intense competition setting.
Despite the backlash, Cellini expressed gratitude for the experience and support she received. “I want to thank the Mexican people who made me feel at home. I carry Mexico in my heart and in my soul, as the song says. I felt very comfortable being there,” he shared.
Miss Universe taught her
While many expected Cellini to reach the top five—or even win—he fell short. Reflecting on the results, he said, “Frankly, I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: job done. During the preliminaries, you told me I was one of your favorites, and it was an honor to hear those words.”
Cellini believes the experience taught him valuable lessons. “I believe in God’s will. I believe that everything happens for a reason, and I think God is teaching me a lesson that I will apply in my life: learning to control my emotions more. And that’s it. You just have to keep going,” he added.
© Instagram @celineesantofriassThe model also shared her excitement about potentially joining Telemundo. “It will be a pleasure for me to be a part of this family,” he said when discussing his future.
