Multiple Miss Universe contestants staged a walkout during a pre-pageant event in Bangkok on Tuesday after Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch, was publicly reprimanded by Miss Universe Thailand director Nawat Itsaragrisil. The confrontation, which was live streamed, saw Mr. Nawat accuse Bosch of failing to post promotional content. When she objected, he called security and threatened disqualification for those supporting her.
The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) has condemned Mr. Nawat’s conduct as “malicious” and announced legal action. The incident has sparked widespread backlash and renewed scrutiny of the pageant’s leadership.
Incident Timeline and Key Figures
The confrontation occurred during a formal pre-pageant ceremony attended by over 70 national titleholders. Mr. Nawat, 60, raised his voice at Bosch and repeatedly told her to stop speaking. When she refused to back down, he summoned security and warned that any contestant who left would be disqualified.
Despite the threat, Bosch exited the room, followed by several contestants in solidarity. Among them was reigning Miss Universe Victoria Kjaer Theilvig of Denmark, who criticized the handling of the situation as “beyond disrespectful.”
MUO, Contestants, and Public Response
MUO President Raul Rocha issued a video statement condemning Mr. Nawat’s actions, stating he had “humiliated, insulted and showed a lack of respect” to Bosch. Rocha confirmed that MUO would limit or eliminate Mr. Nawat’s role in the competition and pursue legal action.
Bosch later told reporters, “I’m not afraid to make my voice heard. I came here to be a voice for all the women and girls who fight for causes.” Mr. Nawat has since apologized, saying, “If anyone feels bad, uncomfortable, or affected, I apologise to everyone.”
Pageant Integrity and Global Perception
The incident has raised serious concerns about the treatment of contestants and the values upheld by the Miss Universe brand. The walkout, led by high-profile participants, underscores growing demands for accountability and respect within the pageant industry.
The MUO’s swift response may help preserve the competition’s credibility, but the controversy has already drawn global attention and criticism.
What’s Next: Pageant Schedule and Leadership Changes
Despite the disruption, the Miss Universe competition continues as scheduled. Contestants participated in a welcome event in Bangkok on Wednesday. The grand finale is set for November 21, where a new Miss Universe will be crowned.
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