Drama erupted at this year’s Miss Universe pageant in Bangkok, Thailand, when Danish titleholder Victoria Theilvig dramatically walked out of a ceremony after witnessing what she called disrespectful treatment of her fellow contestant, Miss Mexico, Melissa Flores Bosch.
The incident occurred at the delegates’ hotel during the sashing ceremony, which was being live-streamed online.
Public Reprimand Sparks Controversy
The controversy began when Nawat Itsaragrisil, Vice President for Asia and Oceania within the Miss Universe Organization, publicly confronted Bosch over missing a sponsor shoot earlier that day.
In the footage shared on the official Miss Universe Thailand Facebook page, Nawat can be heard telling Bosch to stand and “explain herself” in front of the other contestants.
When Bosch hesitated, saying she did not want to be publicly reprimanded, Nawat reportedly interrupted her, calling her “dumb” and ordering security to escort her out.
As tensions escalated, several other contestants appeared ready to walk out in solidarity.
Theilvig Leads Walkout
Victoria Theilvig was among those who left the room, later explaining on camera that she could not stay. “This is about women’s rights,” she said.
“We have respect for everyone, but this is not how things can be handled.
To trash another girl—it’s beyond disrespectful, and it’s nothing I’ve ever done. That’s why I’m taking my coat and I’m going.”
The clip quickly went viral, earning praise from fans, former contestants, and influencers.
Many called Theilvig’s actions “the most empowering act in Miss Universe history,” applauding her integrity and courage.
Divided Reactions Online
While some lauded Theilvig’s stand, others argued she overstepped protocol, disrupting an official event.
A few Thai fans suggested Nawat’s comments may have been mistranslated or taken out of context, defending the pageant official’s actions.
In response, the Miss Universe Organization, now owned by Thailand-based JKN Global Group, released a statement saying, “All scheduled events and activities will continue as planned, reaffirming our shared goal of delivering an exceptional celebration that reflects the values of diversity, empowerment, and inclusion.”
Broader Criticism of the Organization
The incident reignited concerns over contestant treatment and transparency within the organization.
Critics have long highlighted what they describe as a toxic culture of public shaming behind the pageant’s glitzy exterior.
Adding to the controversy, some fans expressed skepticism over this year’s Miss Cuba winner, Lina Luaces, 22, who is the daughter of Univision host Lili Estefan and related to music producer Emilio Estefan and singer Gloria Estefan.
Many social media users called her win “nepotistic” and questioned the fairness of the competition, sparking heated online debates.
Pageant Under Scrutiny
From the Bangkok walkout to allegations of influential family connections, this year’s Miss Universe pageant has seen a surge in public scrutiny.
The events underscore the challenges of balancing glamour and competition while maintaining fairness and respect for the contestants.
