Anneline Kriel celebrates 50 years since Miss World crowning – where is she now?

Fifty years ago, Anneline Kriel was crowned Miss World in London in 1974. Where is the blonde bombshell now?

Anneline Kriel – who was once married to businessman Sol Kerzner – is celebrating 50 years since her Miss World crowning by default.

The 69-year-old blonde bombshell was one of only three South Africans to win the title.

She was also known for notoriously posing for Playboy and her high-profile romantic relationships.

ANNELINE KRIEL CELEBRATES 50 YEARS SINCE MISS WORLD CROWNING

In a social media post, Anneline Kriel reflected on the milestone anniversary.

She posted: “Fifty years ago today, I was crowned Miss World.

“It was an honor that changed my life and launched me on a journey filled with joy, inspiration, and a deep sense of purpose.

“Today, I celebrate this milestone with a heart full of gratitude and a spirit that is truly blessed.”

Interestingly, Anneline was initially placed as the first princess at the Miss World at the Royal Albert Hall in London in 1974.

However, just four days later, she assumed the crown after Welsh winner Helen Morgan was disqualified for being an unwed mother.

Her reign was not without controversy. At the time, South Africa was under international sanctions imposed during the Apartheid era.

According to The Times, the US and Australia refused to accept her as part of the obligatory world tour, while other nations protested that they could not guarantee her safety.

Anneline Kriel claimed that she was coached to avoid talking about politics back home and admitted to living a sheltered life under censored press.

She said: “I was 19. I was very innocent. When I finally went to America they asked me on TV if I thought everyone in my country was happy. I said yes, I did think everyone was happy. Because I did think that.”

Kriel went on to become a successful actress and model after her reign. She was also affectionately nicknamed “South Africa’s Princess Di” by the press.

WHERE IS SHE NOW?
After spending much of her life in the spotlight, Anneline Kriel retreated to anonymity in Mauritius, where she currently lives.

After splitting from her husbands Sol Kerzner and Philip Tucker, who have both since passed, Anneline married Sun International CEO Peter Backon. The couple relocated from Cape Town to the tropical island.

Anneline has two daughters – Whitney and Tayla – with her second husband, Philip, who was found dead in his swimming pool in 2008.