The pageant world is reeling today after news out of Guatemala that Raquel Escalante — a beloved beauty queen, TV host, and bright, rising star — has died after battling cervical cancer.
Even more tragically, she was just 28 years old.
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Her colleagues at the Guatemalan television station TV Aztec Guate were among the first to speak out, releasing a heartfelt message via Instagram late last week that captured the spirit everyone seemed to feel around her:
“Her charisma, her joy and that special light that always accompanied her made every moment by her side something unique and memorable. Today we bid farewell to a colleague and friend who left a huge imprint on our hearts. Her smile, her energy and her passion for communicating will continue to inspire us every day.”
The statement continued with an emotional goodbye:
“We accompany her family and loved ones with love at this very difficult time. Thank you, Raquel, for giving us your sparkle. You will always be part of our family chilerísima.”
Fans immediately flooded social media with tributes recalling her warmth, kindness, and radiance. Many described her as someone whose presence lifted others up without trying.
Raquel’s rise in the public eye began years ago, and by 2021 she was crowned Miss Intercontinental Guatemala. Her IG following grew to more than 87,000, too, because people gravitated naturally toward her positivity. She later added television hosting to her list of accomplishments as well, becoming a familiar face helming shows on TV Aztec Guate.
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But behind the camera, she was fighting a terrible battle. In 2024, she revealed that she’d been hospitalized due to dropping hemoglobin levels. At that point, she shared the news that her cancer — which had previously gone into remission — had returned.
Her words from that time, translated (below) into English, now read with an added weight, as though she already sensed the difficult road ahead:
“Today I want to open my heart and share a news that, although difficult, I face it with the same courage that has always accompanied me. As many of you know I was diagnosed with cancer a while ago and after a tough battle I had managed to go into remission. However, today I have to say that the fight is not over, because cancer has come back into my life.”
At the time, she didn’t pretend to be fearless, but she remained brave:
“I’m not going to lie to you, the road ahead won’t be easy, but I’m ready to face each challenge with the same determination as before. I’m grateful for the love and support I’ve received so far, and I know that counting on you will give me the extra strength I need to push forward. None of us are struggling alone, and if my experience can help others, then it’s worth sharing. Thank you for being with me. Together, we move forward. I love you all so much.”
Now, just months later, this brave young woman is gone.
Heartbreaking.
There’s no dramatic spin to put on this, no celebrity gloss to soften the tragedy. She was clearly so beloved in Guatemala, and she should have had more time on this earth.
Rest in peace, Raquel.
[Image via Raquel Escalante/Instagram]
