21-year-old Danish model Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, who was recently crowned Miss Universe, is facing backlash after posting a TikTok video in which she appeared to lip-sync lyrics containing the n-word from Jay-Z's Empire State of Mind.
Theilvig shared the nearly 20-second clip while atop the Empire State Building in New York City, where she had lit the landmark in red and white to celebrate her win and honor Denmark’s national colors. The video, which showed her mouthing along to the song, has since been deleted following criticism.
The New York Post reported that the video drew immediate backlash in the comments. Reactions included, “I can’t believe I’m witnessing this in real time,” and “Girl WHAT?!” One user quipped, “Hey so, this is crazy” and another warned, “they gonna take that crown.” However, other commenters analyzed the clip, with one alleging Theilvig was smiling during the controversial lyric.
In response, a spokesperson for the Miss Universe Organization told the New York Post that Theilvig was unaware the song’s lyrics could be offensive and removed the video after being made aware.
“Both Victoria and our team recognize the importance of fostering an environment of respect, inclusivity, and cultural awareness in everything we do,” the spokesperson said. “This moment has been a valuable reminder of our responsibility to remain sensitive to the diverse perspectives of our global community.”
Theilvig, who became the first Danish woman to win Miss Universe earlier this month, had been widely celebrated for her victory, especially following last year’s pageant controversies, which included backlash over a transgender-identifying biological male receiving a top 20 ranking.
