Victoria Silvstedt

In the vibrant world of entertainment, few people manage to wear as many hats with such finesse as Victoria Silvstedt — an accomplished actress, singer, model, and television host. Victoria has carved out a remarkable niche in the industry through her diverse talents and charismatic presence. From captivating audiences on screen and stage to gracing magazine covers and leading TV shows, she embodies the essence of versatility and creativity. As she continues to shine in various facets of the entertainment world, Victoria not only entertains but also inspires with her unwavering dedication and multifaceted career. In an exclusive interview with the Arab Times, she shares her experiences as a former beauty queen, who first gained attention with her stunning grace and poise, eventually transitioning into a successful career in entertainment. Whether gracing the runway, commanding the stage with her powerful voice, or bringing characters to life on screen, Victoria continues to inspire and entertain with her exceptional versatility and passion for the arts.

Victoria Silvstedt, a Swedish actress, singer, model, TV host, and former beauty queen, rose to fame in 1993 when she was crowned Miss World Sweden and became a Top 10 finalist in the Miss World pageant. Raised in Bollnäs, Sweden, Victoria initially pursued alpine skiing but transitioned to modeling after an injury. She worked with top fashion brands like Chanel and Dior, and her career soared beginning in 1997 when she graced over 500 magazine covers and ventured into acting, television presenting, and even music. Victoria hosted numerous TV shows, including versions of ‘Wheel of Fortune’ in France and Italy, and appeared in several films. In addition to her entertainment career, she launched her own lingerie line, authored an autobiography, and starred in a reality TV show. A polyglot, Victoria speaks English, French, and Italian fluently, in addition to her native Swedish, and remains active in fashion and business.

Victoria Silvstedt: Winning the Miss Sweden title for the Miss World pageant was a life-changer. “I was living in a small village at the time, where I had only done some local catwalks and modeling, so my confidence and experience were very limited. After spending a month in South Africa, where the pageant was held, I learned a lot — how to walk in heels, act more like a lady, and speak proper English. I was 18 at the time and very shy, but I grew a lot after that experience.”

AT: What lessons did you take from your early experiences in the beauty pageant world that have influenced your journey in entertainment?

Victoria Silvstedt: I learned to be nice to people no matter their background. I also learned not to be too naïve — I believed that there’s good in everyone, but people aren’t always honest.

AT: You transitioned from beauty pageants to becoming an international model and actress. What were some of the challenges and highlights of making that shift?

Victoria Silvstedt: The shift happened naturally, from modeling and fashion shows, where I built my confidence. I’ve always loved a challenge. Growing up as an athlete and skiing from an early age, competition has been part of my upbringing. So, the transition from modeling to TV and acting was a fun and rewarding challenge. It hasn’t always been easy; I’ve made some mistakes in choosing roles or modeling gigs, but you learn from your mistakes and grow.

AT: What do you think is the key to sustaining a successful modeling career over time?

Victoria Silvstedt: Re-invent yourself. Stay healthy and fit, be personal, genuine, and friendly. I’m always positive, which helps me move forward and not give up.

AT: You’ve worked as a model, actress, singer, and TV host. How do you decide which projects to take on, and how do you manage balancing these diverse roles?

Victoria Silvstedt: At this stage in my career, it’s all about challenges and fun projects. I’m turning down a lot of TV shows that I would have accepted in the past. Now, I enjoy life to the fullest!

AT: Do you feel that each of these roles reflects a different side of your personality? If so, how?

Victoria Silvstedt: I love playing a role and also being myself.

AT: How has gaining international fame influenced your perspective on beauty, success, and the entertainment industry?

Victoria Silvstedt: I love all the peaks of fame – the glamorous events, the beautiful places it has taken me, and the amazing people I’ve met. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m so thankful. But I also love disconnecting from that world sometimes, just relaxing, and doing normal things. I love nature and going back to my family to just be me.

AT: You’ve worked across various countries and cultures. How do you adapt to different markets, whether in Europe, the US, or elsewhere?

Victoria Silvstedt: I adapt very quickly. I love the different cultures, languages, and traditions in the countries where I’ve worked. I learned Italian quickly for a TV show and movies, and the same in France. In Hollywood, I learned the American way. I love the challenges.

AT: What has been the biggest personal challenge you’ve faced in your career, and how did you overcome it?

Victoria Silvstedt: When I transitioned from being a model and actress to hosting live shows in France, in French, it was a tough challenge that required lots of hard work to learn French so quickly. But it paid off, and I became a TV star unexpectedly. Also, when I made my music album, I signed with EMI Records after having two hits in Scandinavia. I recorded a full album – lots of work, but so rewarding.

AT: How do you maintain a sense of balance and authenticity in an industry that often focuses on external appearances?

Victoria Silvstedt: I’m close to my family. I have good values, and I do lots of yoga, pilates, and sports like hiking.

AT: What advice would you give to young women aspiring to build a multifaceted career like yours?

Victoria Silvstedt: I think today it’s a bit different since when I started my career, there was no social media. You had to work hard to get noticed. Now, anyone can promote themselves through social media, but this also means that many real talents face more competition. It’s different now.

AT: Who has been the most significant influence on your career and why?

Victoria Silvstedt: My agent from the beginning, Mika, played a big role in the early stages of my career and continues to do so in Sweden. In the U.S., I got recognized for being on the cover of a prestigious magazine and having my reality show on E! Entertainment. I signed with the top agent at Elite Celebrities and landed huge contracts in the U.S., thanks to Monique Pillard, who is no longer alive. My mom has always been my rock in life, and we are very close.

AT: Looking ahead, are there any new ventures or goals you’re passionate about pursuing in the next few years? Are there any causes or projects outside of entertainment that you’re particularly committed to?

Victoria Silvstedt: I’m still doing some modeling, TV, events, and singing — so why not continue? I’m also a proud ambassador for The Perfect World Foundation (focused on preserving local and global biodiversity — all life on earth). Additionally, I’m an ambassador for the Make-A-Wish Foundation International (bringing wishes and joy to sick kids). I’m happy to give back and help.