Ep 12. Miss Universe

Ziwe season 2 episode 12 titled "Miss Universe" dives into the world of beauty pageants and explores the expectations and limitations placed on women who aspire to be crowned "Miss Universe." Host Ziwe Fumudoh welcomes special guests Jelena Noura "Gigi" Hadid, Victoria's Secret model, Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach, and former Miss USA Nia Sanchez to discuss their experiences in the pageant world.

The episode kicks off with Ziwe introducing the theme and asking her guests about their first impressions of the Miss Universe pageant. Hadid, who has never competed in a beauty pageant, admits to not having a clear understanding of what goes on behind the scenes. On the other hand, Sanchez shares that she had always dreamed of participating in beauty pageants and was even crowned Miss Nevada before winning the title of Miss USA in 2014.

Wurtzbach, who is known for her controversial win after host Steve Harvey mistakenly announced the wrong winner in 2015, opens up about the pressures of representing her country and the criticism she faced. She also talks about the Miss Universe organization's efforts to increase diversity and inclusion within the pageant.

As the conversation continues, Ziwe challenges her guests to reflect on the beauty standards perpetuated by pageants and how they can be harmful to women's self-esteem. Hadid shares her own experiences with body shaming and how she has learned to embrace her curves as a model.

The episode also features a parody beauty pageant hosted by Ziwe, where she asks contestants to showcase their "talents" such as reciting skincare routines and twerking to the tune of the Miss Universe theme song. The segment, while humorous, highlights the absurdity of beauty pageants and the expectations placed on women to conform to narrow beauty standards.

Overall, "Miss Universe" is a thought-provoking episode that tackles the complex issues surrounding beauty pageants and challenges viewers to question their own beliefs and biases. Through candid conversations with successful models and former pageant winners, Ziwe sheds light on the realities of the pageant world and encourages viewers to embrace their unique beauty.