Missed congeniality: Beauty pageant organiser accused of calling contestant a ‘dumbhead’ | Offbeat News
The organiser of Miss Universe has told Sky News he cannot stand down from his position – despite allegations he was aggressive towards a contestant.
In a video that’s now gone viral, Nawat Itsaragrisil appeared to reprimand Miss Mexico after she had failed to post promotional content about Thailand – this year’s host country – online.
Reporters at the event claimed he had called Fatima Bosch a «dumbhead» – something he has firmly denied.
After the verbal altercation, she replied: «You are not respecting me as a woman.»
Nawat then called for security and Bosch walked out of the room. She was joined by other contestants in a show of solidarity, including the reigning Miss Universe.
The pageant’s president, Mexican businessman Raul Rocha, has described his behaviour as «public aggression» and «serious abuse».
At a news conference, Nawat insisted he had used the word «damage» rather than «dumbhead» – and urged reporters to check footage of the incident online.
However, he added: «This issue has dragged me down to this point. I understand and I apologise.»
Nawat Itsaragrisil sobbed as he asked for forgiveness
When pressed further by journalists, Nawat appeared to start sobbing and said: «I am a human who can feel hurt.»
He has also apologised to contestants, adding: «If anyone (was) affected and not comfortable, it happened, I am so sorry. It’s passed. Okay? Are you happy?»
The controversy has overshadowed the Miss Universe contest, with several events to go until the grand final on 21 November.
