Gal Gadot & Sushmita Sen to Harnaaz Kaur Sandhu: Miss Universe queens who shone bright on the silver screen

For many beauty queens, the Miss Universe victory was the stepping stone required to establish themselves on the silver screen. Here is a look at notable former winners who became prominent and famous names in the film industry.

Miss Universe

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Harnaaz Kaur Sandhu – Miss Universe 2021 (Winner)

Harnaaz Kaur Sandhu

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The third Indian to win Miss Universe, Harnaaz Sandhu, successfully transformed from the global stage to the showbiz. After making a mark in Punjabi content, she made a promising debut in Baaghi 4, and her inherent charm makes her one of the most promising beauty-queen-turned-actresses today.

Gal Gadot – Miss Universe 2004 (Israel, Top 15)

Gal Gadot

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Gal Gadot, now one of the world’s most successful actresses and the star of Wonder Woman, began her public life as a Miss Universe contestant for Israel. Despite not winning the title, her roles in franchises like Wonder Woman and Fast & Furious made her a global star.

Lara Dutta – Miss Universe 2000 (Winner)

Lara Dutta

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Following Sushmita Sen, Lara Dutta became the second Indian to win the Miss Universe title. Her entry into showbiz was marked by her debut film, Andaaz, which earned her the Filmfare Best Female Debut award. Since then, Lara has proven her versatility by starring in a wide range of films, from comedies like Housefull to serious dramas such as Bell Bottom.

Sushmita Sen – Miss Universe 1994 (Winner)

Sushmita Sen

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Sushmita Sen scripted history by becoming the first Indian woman to claim the Miss Universe title in 1994. Post her win, she tried her luck in acting and gave several memorable performances with films such as Biwi No.1 and Main Hoon Na, currently ruling the charts with her powerful roles in OTT hits like Aarya.

Halle Berry – Miss USA 1986 (First Runner-Up at Miss USA, Top 6 at Miss World)

Halle Berry

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Despite skipping the Miss Universe stage, Halle Berry’s pageant experience (a top 6 finalist at Miss World) turned out to be a launching pad for her successful transition to Hollywood. She scripted history by becoming the first African-American woman to secure the Academy Award for Best Actress for Monster’s Ball. Her career is celebrated by bold and powerful roles, from X-Men to Catwoman and an Academy Award win for Monster’s Ball.