Miss Universe Persia Fay Asghari. Image from Sam Asghari’s Instagram
For the first time since it’s inception, the Miss Universe pageant will see a representative from Persia (or what is now known in modern times as Iran) in this year’s edition of the international competition, and she is Fay Asghari, sister of pop star Britney Spears’ ex-husband Sam Asghari.
The 31-year-old Iranian-American model, entrepreneur, online content creator, and nurse edged out 20 other aspirants in the first-ever Miss Universe Persia pageant to earn the distinction of being the Islamic Republic of Iran’s debut delegate in the 73-year-old global tilt.
The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) had earlier announced that it is expecting more than 100 delegates in the contest’s 73rd edition this year, with many countries participating for the first time, including Iran.
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Miss Universe Persia Fay Asghari/FAY ASGHARI FACEBOOK PHOTO
Asghari was born in the Iranian capital of Tehran, but her family later on migrated to the United States. She holds bachelor’s degrees in microbiology and nursing sciences. She also owns an aesthetic clinic in Beverly Hills, California.
She is also a staunch supporter of animal rights, and is passionate about fashion and beauty, interests that she has discussed in her blog.
In 2021, when her brother and Spears announced their engagement, Asghari was one of those who congratulated the couple vocally. She even sat beside Madonna when Spears and Sam tied the knot in June 2022, after dating for five years, though their marriage ended in a divorce settlement in August 2023.
On Instagram, Sam expressed his pride for his sister, who he said “made history” after winning the local competition that earned her a ticket to the Miss Universe pageant.
“I’m speechless. My sister @fayasgharii made history tonight. She became the first ever Miss Universe Persia. She will be the first ever Persian women to attend @missuniverse. Fay you inspired millions of little girls tonight that are born in countries and situations of restrain. Growing up with three overachieving sisters made me into a man I am today. I will never doubt your powers,” said Sam.
Asghari will compete in the 73rd Miss Universe pageant in Mexico later this year, and try to inherit the title from reigning queen Sheynnis Palacios, the first winner from Nicaragua.
The Philippines will be represented by Chelsea Manalo, a model from Bulacan of African-American descent, and the first part-Black Filipino delegate in the Miss Universe pageant.