Dr. Gabrielle Henry has filed a lawsuit against the Miss Universe Organization after a fall during the preliminary round of the Miss Universe competition in Bangkok, Thailand, left her with significant injuries. The incident took place on November 19, 2025, when Henry, in a shimmering orange gown, fell approximately five feet off the stage. Video footage captured the moment, showing her body tumbling forward before medical personnel rushed to her aid, rolling her away on a stretcher.
Despite assurances from the Miss Universe Organization and its owner, Raul Rocha, that Henry was in “good care” and did not suffer life-threatening injuries, she missed the finale the following day and ultimately did not compete in the finals. Now, nearly a year later, she is seeking accountability for what she claims was an avoidable accident.
Henry filed her lawsuit on September 21, 2026, in the Delaware Superior Court. The complaint names the Miss Universe Organization and several associated companies. The former Miss Jamaica alleges that she followed rehearsal directions before the fall and that the accident occurred near an unmarked, uncovered opening with lighting equipment on the stage. Henry stated, “I have no recollection of the fall. I just know that the bottom of that hole was a concrete base.” Her first memory after the incident was waking up to see her mother’s face.
The injuries sustained were serious. Henry spent over a week in a Bangkok hospital, including time in the intensive care unit. Medical reports indicate she suffered bleeding around and between the brain, as well as bruising in the frontal lobe. In addition to her brain injury, she had a fracture and facial lacerations, requiring medical assistance to return to Jamaica.
“I know for a fact I did not trip,” Henry said. “I do think it could have been avoided.”
In interviews following the filing of her lawsuit, she described the brain injury as “one of the most traumatizing things” she’s experienced, adding, “I would not wish it on my worst enemy.” Nearly a year into her recovery, Henry continues to experience pain that disrupts her sleep and has had to relearn how to walk, undergoing physiotherapy and ongoing medical monitoring.
The lawsuit claims that the danger posed by the stage was preventable. Henry asserts that others had previously complained about the lighting conditions, which made it difficult to see the edge of the stage. Following her fall, additional lights were reportedly added to the area.
The Miss Universe Organization has stated that it has not yet received the lawsuit. In prior communications, the organization claimed it had covered Henry’s medical expenses during her hospital stay in Thailand and for her escort back to Jamaica. However, it clarified that Henry has not submitted any separate requests for additional medical costs. She has indicated that communication regarding her ongoing medical bills has been lacking.
Henry’s decision to pursue legal action reflects a broader conversation about safety standards and accountability at high-profile events like beauty pageants. The fallout from her fall raises questions about the responsibilities organizations have to ensure the safety of their contestants.
As the case unfolds, Dr. Gabrielle Henry’s experience serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers faced by participants in such competitions and the need for stringent safety measures in the industry.
According to TheShadeRoom.
