Miss Universe Thailand director Nawat Itsaragrisil apologized on stage on Wednesday after a live broadcast of him berating contestants and insulting Miss Mexico went viral, causing several delegates to walk out.
“If anyone was affected and doesn’t feel comfortable (with what) happened, I’m very sorry,” Nawat said, adding, “I think you have to understand that the pressure is a lot. I’m a human being. Sometimes I can’t control… I didn’t mean to harm anyone because I respect all of you…”
“I want to (take) this opportunity to… apologize to the delegates… And, also, I am sorry for (Miss) Universe and for everyone too. But I wish that all the true messages are correct… Please check everything on our website,” he continued.
Controversy erupted at a pre-contest ceremony when Nawat publicly reprimanded Mexican Fatima Bosch in front of dozens of contestants for not posting promotional content.
When she objected, he called security and threatened to disqualify those who supported her, after which Bosch left the room and others joined her in solidarity.
Among those who withdrew on Tuesday was reigning Miss Universe Victoria Kjaer Theilvig of Denmark.
Despite the dispute, Miss Universe activities continued and contestants attended a welcome event in Bangkok on Wednesday. The new Miss Universe will be crowned on November 21.
