Marisol Malaret (1949–2023), first Puerto Rican Miss Universe

Marisol Malaret was the first Miss Universe from Puerto Rico and the first from the Caribbean islands, who held the crown in 1970.

• Died: March 19, 2023 (Who else died on March 19?)
• Details of death: Died at a hospital in San Juan, Puerto Rico of complications from a pulmonary condition at the age of 73.
• We invite you to share condolences for Marisol Malaret in our Guest Book.

Miss Universe and beyond

Malaret was 20 years old when, wearing a borrowed gown, she beat 63 other young women to become Miss Universe 1970. She had been drawn to the contest in part because it raised money for people with disabilities – this was a cause that hit close to home as her brother was disabled. After her win, she was widely honored back home, as well as touring the world and visiting the White House. Malaret took advantage of her newfound fame to build a career in media. She became the host of the Puerto Rican TV show “Noche de Gala” and began an acting career. Her credits include the movie “Mami” and appearance on TV’s “Dallas.” Malaret also ran the fashion boutique La Femme and founded the magazines Imagen and Caras de Puerto Rico.

Tributes to Marisol Malaret

Full obituary: San Juan Daily Star

View More Legacy Videos