Christiane Martel facts for kids

Martel in 1953

Christiane Martel, born Christiane Magnani on January 18, 1935, is a famous French and Mexican actress, model, and beauty queen. She made history by becoming the second woman ever to win the Miss Universe pageant in 1953. For many years, she was the only French woman to hold this special title, until Iris Mittenaere won in 2016. Christiane Martel is also known as one of the last living stars from the exciting time called the Golden Age of Mexican cinema.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Christiane Martel was born in Nancy, France. She grew up in a town called Piennes. Her family had Italian roots. During the Second World War, her family moved to different parts of France to stay safe.

Winning Beauty Pageants

Christiane Martel started her journey in beauty pageants in 1952. She was first crowned Miss Châtellerault. Later, she won the title of Miss Cinémonde. This win allowed her to represent France at the Miss Universe 1953 competition.

At the Miss Universe pageant, Christiane Martel won the top prize! She became the second Miss Universe ever. The previous winner, Armi Kuusela from Finland, passed her crown to Christiane. The runners-up in the 1953 pageant were Myrna Hansen from the USA, followed by contestants from Japan, Mexico, and Australia.

Becoming a Film Star

After her time as Miss Universe, Christiane Martel began a successful career in movies. She appeared in several international films. Some of her well-known movies include Yankee Pasha and So This Is Paris. She also starred in the 1956 version of Corazón salvaje, where she played the character Aimée. Her last film was Leoni al Sole in 1961.

Later Appearances and Activities

Years later, Christiane Martel returned to the Miss Universe stage, but this time as a judge. She was a judge at the Miss Universe 1978 pageant. She also made special television appearances at the Miss Universe pageants held in Mexico in 1989, 1993, and 2007. Her most recent TV appearance in France was in 2011 at the Miss France pageant. In 2017, she was interviewed on the Mexican television show Sale el sol.

Personal Life and Family

Christiane Martel was briefly married to Ronnie Marengo. They divorced in 1955. In 1961, she married Miguel Alemán Velasco. Miguel Alemán Velasco later became the Governor of Veracruz in Mexico. His father, Miguel Alemán Valdés, was a former president of Mexico.

Christiane and Miguel have four children: three daughters and one son. Their son, Miguel Alemán Magnani, is a well-known businessman.

External links

Awards and achievements
Preceded by Armi Kuusela	Miss Universe 1953	Succeeded by Miriam Stevenson

See also

In Spanish: Christiane Martel para niños