In a stunning departure from traditional beauty pageant norms, a death metal vocalist has claimed victory at Miss Mundo Chile, securing her spot to represent the nation at the prestigious Miss World competition next year.
Death Metal Meets Beauty Pageant
Ignacia Fernandez, a 27-year-old model and musician, delivered what might be the most unconventional talent performance in beauty pageant history during the Miss Mundo Chile semi-finals. While competitors typically showcase ballet, piano, or pop singing, Fernandez unleashed the raw, guttural sounds of death metal alongside guitarist Carlos Palma Morán.
The performance wasn't just a novelty act. Fernandez is the genuine article - lead vocalist of death metal band Decessus, which she co-founded in 2020. Her extreme vocal technique, known as throat singing, represents years of dedicated practice and professional training.
The Road to Perfection
What made Fernandez's performance particularly remarkable was the serious preparation behind it. Though she initially taught herself the demanding vocal style, she eventually undertook two years of formal singing lessons and currently works with both a speech therapist and an otolaryngologist to maintain her vocal health.
Her pre-performance routine involves up to 30 minutes of vocal warm-ups, demonstrating the professional approach she brings to what many might consider an unconventional pageant talent.
Breaking Barriers Goes Viral
The impact of Fernandez's performance extended far beyond the pageant stage. In an Instagram post, she revealed the deep personal significance of metal music in her life, calling it "a fundamental part of who I am as a person" and "a refuge, a source of strength and purpose."
Her appearance on national television through Chilevision became a statement against preconceived notions. "It was a great experience to break down barriers on open television, inspire, be real with it, and show that you don't have to fear the prejudices of others," she wrote.
The performance quickly captured global attention when a clip posted on TikTok amassed over one million likes within just 24 hours. Internet users dubbed her "Death Metal Barbie" and praised her ability to embody both elegance and raw musical intensity.
From Stage Shock to National Crown
The bold strategy paid off spectacularly. After stunning judges and enthralling audiences in the semi-finals, Fernandez advanced to the Miss Mundo Chile grand finale on Sunday, November 9. Competing against twenty finalists, she emerged victorious, claiming the crown that will send her to the international Miss World stage.
Following her win, Fernandez expressed her gratitude on Instagram: "I couldn't be happier or more grateful! I'm taking on this beautiful challenge with all my energy and heart, ready to represent my country in the best way possible."
She promised to approach the international competition with "passion, hard work, and purpose" while thanking supporters for the "worldwide recognition of my singing, a piece of my soul that inspires me to keep growing and dreaming big."
Fernandez's journey represents a rare convergence of two worlds that rarely intersect - the intense subculture of death metal and the glamorous arena of beauty pageants. Her success demonstrates that authenticity can resonate broadly and that passion and skill can transcend expectations.
As she prepares for the Miss World competition, Fernandez carries not just a crown but a powerful message: true talent, no matter how unconventional, deserves recognition and celebration.
