Former Miss Jamaica Gabrielle Henry has filed a lawsuit against the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) and its parent companies, alleging negligence and unsafe stage conditions led to her traumatic brain injury during the preliminary competition in Thailand on November 19, 2025. Henry fell about 1.5m through an unmarked and uncovered opening in the stage, which contained lighting equipment and a concrete base. She lost consciousness and suffered a brain bleed, among other injuries.
Henry's lawsuit, filed in Delaware superior court on September 21, claims the MUO was responsible for her injuries and seeks damages related to medical and rehabilitation costs, lost earning capacity, and professional opportunities. Her legal team alleges that intense stage lighting affected contestants' ability to see the edge of the stage and that she was directed towards an opening that was not barricaded or clearly marked.
According to Henry, she was following the choreography she had rehearsed when she fell, but the stage setup was inadequate. She said she was looking at the cameras as instructed, turned to the left, and then fell through the opening. Henry's mother found her after the fall, and she was admitted to Paolo Rangsit Hospital in Bangkok, where she spent seven days in intensive care.
Henry was diagnosed with a traumatic brain injury, acute subdural haemorrhage, and injuries to her face and back. Her medical residency was put on hold due to continuing neurological and cognitive symptoms. Henry's representatives claim that the MUO initially provided financial support for her treatment but later diminished it after she returned to Jamaica.
The MUO has disputed allegations that it was responsible for the stage and venue, stating that local host Miss Grand International (MGI) was responsible for the production and safety of the event. However, the MUO did provide financial assistance for Henry's medical treatment, including her initial hospital expenses in Thailand and specialized follow-up care after she returned to Jamaica.
Despite the lawsuit, Henry has reflected positively on her time as Miss Universe Jamaica, describing her pageant journey as one of personal and emotional growth. She expressed gratitude for the lessons, friendships, and moments of growth she experienced. Henry emphasized the importance of the team behind a contestant, including friends, supporters, coaches, and family.
Henry is seeking damages and hopes to hold the MUO and its related companies liable for her injuries and losses. The allegations have not yet been tested in court. Henry's experience has reinforced her focus on her greater purpose, and she looks forward to seeing where her journey leads her next.
Key points
- Gabrielle Henry fell through an unmarked opening on the Miss Universe stage in Thailand, resulting in a traumatic brain injury.
- Henry's lawsuit alleges negligence and unsafe stage conditions on the part of the Miss Universe Organization.
- The MUO has disputed responsibility for the stage and venue, citing the role of local host Miss Grand International.
