A smoldering power struggle over vote contests and controversies is the source of the tension. It was intended to be a global celebration of women. Rather, it descended into anarchy. Pageant viewers were enthralled by the walkouts, tears, and heated interactions that occurred during the Miss Universe orientation in Thailand on November 4. The drama began when current Miss Universe Victoria Theilvig publicly backed Fatima Bosch of Mexico, who was embroiled in a bitter dispute with Nawat Itsaragrisil, the vocal vice president of Asiana, the creator of Miss Grand International, and the national director of Miss Universe Thailand (MUT).
Videos posted on the internet reveal Itsaragrisil yells at Bosch as other competitors can be heard in the distance, some silently leaving and others holding their ground. Several candidates left the yelling contest because of the obvious tension. With tears streaming down her face, Theilvig addressed the media, stating unequivocally that women should support one another rather than undermine one another.
“This is not how things [should] be handled, but we respect everyone.” In a video that pageant correspondent Adam Genato posted, she stated, “To trash another girl is beyond disrespectful.” As a girl, I can’t stand for it. The Danish beauty queen continued, “That’s why I’m taking my phone and I’m going,” as she turned to leave. Theilvig didn’t end there. She commended Bosch on Instagram Stories for “standing up for yourself,” describing it as “one of the most important acts of self-respect and strength you can show.” It entails being aware of your importance, establishing boundaries, and refusing to let anything or anyone diminish your voice. It’s about speaking up, being heard, and pursuing your goals,” she added.
According to reports, Bosch declined a sponsor picture shoot and only consented to those conducted by Telemundo, which is said to have led to the altercation. Theilvig reportedly walked out in solidarity after being instructed to either cooperate or leave when she attempted to defend herself. The sashing ceremony proceeded without Itsaragrisil in sight after MUT and the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) were able to resolve the issue. He expressed regret in a live webcast, saying he felt “very pressured,” and he pledged to patch things up with Bosch and the competitors.
A simmering power struggle between MUT and MUO, especially over vote contests and sponsorship disputes, is the source of the tension. While MUT had criticized MUO for supposedly endorsing an online casino sponsor, which is prohibited by Thai law, MUO called several of Itsaragrisil’s projects “unauthorized.” In order to ensure everyone that the 74th Miss Universe coronation night on November 21 would go according to schedule, MUO CEO Mario Bucaro is traveling to Thailand. A “safe, inspiring, and memorable experience for every delegate” is what the organization guarantees.
Now, everyone is watching the coronation stage as Ahtisa Manalo attempts to win the fifth Miss Universe title for the Philippines.
