Tensions ran high this week on Miss Universe: The Reality, Telemundo's competitive beauty series, after Zuleyka Rivera abruptly quit the show. The Puerto Rican star, who had been serving as captain of Team Ruby, left the set following a heated exchange with the judges, leaving fans and contestants stunned.
At first, many viewers believed it was just scripted drama, but it quickly became clear the disagreement was real. The show's future was briefly uncertain until Wednesday night. Then, it was announced that Andrea Meza would be stepping in as Rivera's replacement.
Andrea Meza, who won the Miss Universe crown in 2020 and hails from Mexico, was introduced by fellow Mexican star and show host Jacqueline Bracamontes. She received a warm welcome from the studio audience as she made her surprise entrance in Colombia, where the show is filmed. In a pre-recorded video, Meza introduced herself to viewers unfamiliar with her background and made her mission clear.
"I'm Andrea Meza, Miss Universe 2020, and I'm here to lead Team Ruby. My role is to help these women find their authentic selves, not to become a copy of past Miss Universes or mimic other contestants. I want them to find what makes them unique and use it to shine on the Miss Universe Latina stage."
Wearing a striking strapless purple gown with a full skirt, Meza appeared thrilled to take on her new role. With her trademark charm, the Hoy Día host addressed the contestants and the audience, "I'm so excited! I can't believe I'm here on stage with all of you right now. Life really does move fast. I'm taking on this challenge with a full heart and a lot of joy. I've been watching all of you from my couch; I've done my homework!"
The show began with 30 Latina contestants, all competing for the chance to represent their community in the next edition of Miss Universe. The participants are split into two teams, Team Ruby and Team Emerald, now captained by Andrea Meza and Alicia Machado. The captains provide guidance and mentorship to help the contestants perfect their stage presence and impress the panel of judges.
What Happened Between Zuleyka Rivera and the Judges?
The judging panel, featuring Aracely Arámbula, David Salomón, and Fabián Ríos, is tasked with evaluating the contestants' performances after each challenge. But during a recent taping, judge David Salomón made a comment that didn't sit well with Zuleyka Rivera, "You already know the rules. It's important to follow instructions," Salomón said, referring to the contestants.
Rivera took offense, asking Salomón to "name names" if he had issues with specific individuals. He continued, "Pay close attention to what you're told, even if it's coming from your captains, Zuleyka Rivera or Alicia Machado, because ignoring instructions, even when Jacky [Bracamontes] is shouting them, could lead to disqualification."
Fabián Ríos backed Salomón's comments, prompting Zuleyka to stand up and announce she was done with the show. She argued that the judges didn't understand what it meant to actually compete in Miss Universe, something she, Alicia, and Jacky had all experienced firsthand. Visibly upset, Rivera walked off the set during the live broadcast.
By Tuesday night, her chair was empty. Jacqueline Bracamontes confirmed the news, "I have to inform our audience, especially the Team Ruby members, that Zuleyka will not be continuing as captain of Miss Universe Latina: The Reality. We wish her the very best moving forward."