Jamaica – LaToya Malcolm, a former Miss Universe Jamaica finalist and prominent figure in the local entertainment industry, has died at age 35, the Miss Universe Jamaica organization confirmed on Saturday, July 18, 2026. The organization announced her death in an official statement shared on its Instagram account, saying it mourned the passing of the “MUJ alumna” who competed in the 2024 Miss Universe Jamaica Competition and extended thoughts and prayers to her family, friends and loved ones. Her family and pageant officials have not disclosed a cause of death, and no further details about the circumstances were released. Malcolm gained national attention in 2024 when she took part in the Miss Universe Jamaica pageant and later that year won the Miss Jamaica Bikini International title. She competed during a period of personal hardship following the death of her father, and she dedicated her Bikini International crown to him in a social media post, writing that the win was for her “beloved father” and that she hoped to continue making him proud. Outside of pageantry, Malcolm built a multi-faceted career over more than a decade as an actress, dancer, and professional dance instructor, and she took part in community outreach work, including with the non-profit Transition Project.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.