Miss Universe executive calls Miss Mexico 'dumbhead'; contestants stage walkout
What's the story
A number of contestants at the Miss Universe event have staged a walkout after an official from host nation Thailand publicly reprimanded Miss Mexico. The incident occurred during a pre-pageant ceremony when Nawat Itsaragrisil, the director of Miss Universe Thailand, scolded Fatima Bosch for not posting promotional content. He could be heard calling her "dumbhead." When Bosch objected to the reprimand, Itsaragrisil called security and threatened disqualification to those who supported her.
Walkout details
Here's what happened
After the incident, Bosch left the room with a few other contestants in solidarity. A video of the confrontation, which was live-streamed, has since gone viral online. In the footage, several contestants can be heard shouting back at Itsaragrisil as he reprimands Bosch and repeatedly asks her to stop speaking. Despite his threats that those who continued to support her would be disqualified from the contest, many women remained standing, and some proceeded toward the exit in solidarity with Bosch.
Official response
Itsaragrisil 'not respectful,' says Bosch
After the incident, Bosch told reporters that Itsaragrisil was "not respectful" and had called her "dumb." However, Itsaragrisil later claimed he was misunderstood and said he meant to say she had caused "damage." The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) has condemned Itsaragrisil's actions as "malicious" and announced legal actions. MUO President Raul Rocha said Itsaragrisil had "humiliated, insulted and showed a lack of respect" to Bosch.
Protest statement
Reigning Miss Universe among those who walked out
Among those who walked out was reigning Miss Universe Victoria Kjaer Theilvig of Denmark. She said, "This is about women's rights... To trash another girl is beyond disrespectful." Bosch later emphasized her commitment to being a voice for women and girls fighting for causes. The MUO has since sent a delegation to take over running the competition and limit Itsaragrisil's participation as much as possible.
Event update
Competition continues amid controversy
Later, Itsaragrisil addressed the media with tears in his eyes. He said he was misunderstood and apologized. Despite the controversy, the Miss Universe competition is continuing with contestants participating in a welcome event in Bangkok. The winner will be crowned on November 21. The incident has sparked widespread criticism of Itsaragrisil's actions and praise for Bosch's response from pageant fans online.