They asked her what she'd do with no rules. Her answer won Miss Universe.

Winning Miss Universe requires more than just beauty—poise, intelligence, and the ability to think on your feet all play a role. That was especially true during the 1997 Miss Universe Pageant, when the final round came down to a single question. Miss USA, Brooke Lee, didn’t just answer it—she delivered a response so unexpected and funny that it won her the crown on the spot.'

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The moment happened during the top three round, where Miss Venezuela, Miss USA, and Miss Trinidad and Tobago had one last chance to impress the judges. The contestants were kept in a soundproof booth while their competitors answered, ensuring fairness. Then came the final question:

"If there were no rules in your life for one day and you could be outrageous, what would you do?"

Miss Venezuela answered first, saying she’d take a magical trip around the world, visiting places like Israel. It was a thoughtful answer, but nothing prepared the audience for what happened next.

When it was Miss USA’s turn, she didn’t hesitate for a second. With a playful gleam in her eye, she delivered the now-iconic response:

 "I would eat everything in the world. You do not understand. I would eat everything twice."
 

The crowd erupted in laughter. The host couldn't contain his reaction, and the audience cheered wildly. At that moment, it became clear—Brooke Lee had just won Miss Universe, as per Women's Wear Daily.

Fans still love her legendary answer

More than two decades later, people still celebrate Lee’s perfect mix of wit, confidence, and authenticity. The official Miss Universe YouTube video of the moment has a flood of comments praising her.

@starlight0513 wrote, "It wasn't even just Brooke Lee's answer, it was her attentiveness to the question, her look at the audience, her sparkle in her eyes, the delivery—it was all so natural! And then there was her answer! She rocked!"

Another fan, @Phil-mu5ur, pointed out her kindness during the competition:

 "How Miss USA assisted Miss Trinidad and Tobago, held her hand, guided her in the booth, and fixed her gown... That says a lot about her. She is an authentic and kind spirit."

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Her humor sealed the deal

The reason her answer worked so well? It was completely genuine.

@octagontowers4267 commented, "Damn! That answer from the US contestant gave her the crown. She didn't think for a second; it was so sincere, not thought out—just pure gut honesty, and anyone can relate to that answer."

Even years later, her win still resonates with fans. @Ronnie06spartan shared a personal memory:

 "1997's pageant is very nostalgic to me. As a kid, we had it recorded on VHS, and it took place in my hometown of Miami, which is awesome. Lots of memories."

A Miss Universe moment to remember

While pageants often reward polished, rehearsed answers, Brooke Lee’s off-the-cuff humor set her apart. In a competition where contestants strive to be perfect, she proved that sometimes, being real is what truly makes you stand out.

Her unforgettable answer is still one of the best in Miss Universe history—and a reminder that sometimes, a little humor can take you all the way to the crown.

This article originally appeared earlier this year.