Miss Universe Contestants Walk Out After One Is Berated
Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, receives the 73rd Miss Universe sash after she was announced the winner of the beauty pageant, in Mexico City, Nov. 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Fernando Llano)
A Miss Universe event in Thailand has ignited international backlash after multiple contestants walked out in protest during a heated confrontation between Miss Universe Thailand director Nawat Itsaragrisil and Miss Mexico, Fátima Bosch.
According to reports, the clash occurred during a pre-pageant ceremony that was being live-streamed. Nawat publicly scolded Bosch for not posting promotional content about Thailand, the host country, raising his voice, calling for security, and threatening to disqualify her and anyone who sided with her.
As Bosch exited the room, several contestants stood up and followed her in solidarity despite warnings that walking out could lead to disqualification. Video clips show contestants shouting back at Nawat as he reprimanded Bosch, with many refusing to sit down as ordered. Reigning Miss Universe Victoria Kjaer Theilvig of Denmark joined the walkout, declaring, “This is about women’s rights.”
The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) swiftly condemned Nawat’s behavior, describing his actions as “malicious” and “deeply inappropriate.” MUO President Raul Rocha stated that Nawat had “humiliated, insulted, and disrespected” Bosch, and that his attempt to use security personnel to intimidate her represented a “serious abuse of authority.” Rocha also confirmed that the organization has taken steps to limit or remove Nawat’s involvement in the competition and is exploring potential legal action.
Nawat has since apologized, claiming his words were misunderstood and denying reports that he called Bosch a “dumbhead,” insisting he only said she had “caused damage.” Meanwhile, international executives have stepped in to take control of the event’s management.
Bosch later spoke out, saying, “We’re in the 21st century, and I’m not a doll to be made up, styled, and have my clothes changed. I came here to be a voice for all the women and girls who fight for their causes — and to show my country that I’m completely committed to that.”
The Miss Universe competition is scheduled to take place on November 21 in Thailand, under heightened scrutiny following the controversy.
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