The highly anticipated Miss Universe contest was all set to start on Tuesday, November 4, when a controversial outbreak occurred at a pre-pageant ceremony. It all began when Thailand’s director, Nawat Itsaragrisil, berated Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch, for not posting enough promotional content. This led to a domino effect, with Bosch interjecting, security being called, and then Bosch storming out of the room, followed by multiple other contestants.
Though Nawat threatened to disqualify the women who supported Bosch, they stood strong and even shouted back at Nawat as he continued to reprimand Bosch. After heavy criticism and claims from multiple witnesses that Nawat used offensive words such as “dumbhead”, Nawat apologized sincerely. “If anyone feels bad, uncomfortable, or affected, I apologise to everyone. I especially apologised to the girls who were present, around 75 of them.” Replies to Nawat in a social media video.
Many of the contestants, and especially outside viewers, are enraged that the women-empowering culture of this event has been disrupted. Previous Miss Universe Victoria Kjaer Theilvig of Denmark speaks out, “This is about women’s rights. This is not how things should be handled. To trash another girl is beyond disrespectful… That’s why I’m taking my coat and I’m walking out.”
The competition will continue, although Nawat’s participation will be greatly limited or even suspended entirely. Contestants state that the goal of creating a voice for women and allowing it to be heard worldwide will still be prioritized through this event, and a winner will be crowned on November 21.
