Washington, 6 Nov

Kiki Hakansson, the first-ever Miss World, has passed away peacefully at the age of 95.

She died in her sleep on Monday, 4 November, at her home in California. Her family confirmed that she "went peacefully, comfortably, and well taken care of."

The announcement was made through the official Miss World Instagram account.

Born in Sweden, Kiki Hakansson made history in 1951 when she was crowned Miss World at the inaugural Miss World pageant, which took place in London.

Held on July 29, 1951, at the Lyceum Ballroom, the pageant was initially conceived as a one-time event tied to the Festival of Britain.

However, the contest went on to become a global institution, and Kiki's victory marked the beginning of the Miss World legacy.

In a heartfelt tribute shared on social media, the official page of the Miss World pageant expressed its deep sorrow at her passing.

The official post read, "We extend our deepest sympathies to all Kiki's family, sending our love and offering our prayers at this difficult time."

Her son, Chris Andersen, also paid tribute to his mother, describing her as "real, kind, loving, and fun," with a "brilliant sense of humour and wit, and a big heart."

He added, "She will be remembered by all who knew her for her warmth and generosity."

Julia Morley, Chairwoman of Miss World, shared her personal thoughts, saying, "Kiki was a true pioneer, and it was therefore fitting that Kiki would have her place in history as the first Miss World." Morley continued, "We will continue through eternity to celebrate the memory of the first ever Miss World, Kerstin (Kiki) Hakansson, who is forever in our hearts."

Kiki Hakansson's passing marks the end of an era for the Miss World competition, but her legacy as the first winner will endure for generations to come.

As a trailblazer, she not only set the stage for future pageant queens but also became an iconic figure in the global cultural landscape. -ANI