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Monday 23/02/2026

Fatima Bosch Crowned Miss Universe Amidst Controversy and Scandal

Fatima Bosch crowned Miss Universe 2023 in Bangkok
Ethan BrooksEthan Brooks

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Fatima Bosch of Mexico was crowned Miss Universe 2023 amid a season marked by controversy and allegations of vote rigging.
  • Bosch's walkout after a public altercation with Thai pageant director Nawat Itsaragrisil sparked global headlines and divided opinions.
  • Two judges resigned, citing concerns over the integrity of the selection process, with claims of pre-selection of finalists.
  • The Miss Universe Organization denied allegations of vote rigging and clarified the separation of its social impact initiative from the competition.
  • The pageant faced additional drama with stage falls and political statements, questioning its relevance amid declining viewership.

In a dramatic conclusion to a tumultuous pageant season, Fatima Bosch of Mexico was crowned Miss Universe 2023 in Bangkok. The event, which traditionally celebrates diversity and empowerment, was overshadowed by controversies including allegations of vote rigging and public disputes.

A Season of Scandals

The controversy began in early November when Bosch walked out of a pre-pageant event after being publicly reprimanded by Thai pageant director Nawat Itsaragrisil. The incident, which was livestreamed, saw Bosch labeled a "dumbhead" for not posting promotional content. Her walkout, joined by other contestants, drew widespread attention and support, including praise from Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who called Bosch an "example of how we women should speak out."

Resignations and Allegations

The pageant's integrity was further questioned when two judges resigned. Lebanese-French musician Omar Harfouch accused the organizers of pre-selecting finalists, a claim he made public via Instagram. "I could not stand before the public and television cameras, pretending to legitimize a vote I never took part in," Harfouch stated. The Miss Universe Organization refuted these claims, asserting that no unauthorized jury was involved in the selection process.

A Divisive Outcome

Bosch's victory, Mexico's fourth Miss Universe crown, has been met with mixed reactions. While many celebrated her win, others speculated that the crown was awarded to mitigate the earlier scandal. The pageant's organizers have remained largely silent, with Nawat Itsaragrisil posting a cryptic message on social media, leaving the public to form their own opinions.

Additional Drama

The pageant also witnessed other dramatic moments, including a fall by Miss Jamaica during the preliminary competition, which resulted in hospitalization. These incidents, coupled with political statements from contestants, have raised questions about the pageant's relevance in a world increasingly critical of traditional beauty standards.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The Miss Universe Organization faces significant challenges in restoring its reputation following this year's controversies. The allegations of vote rigging and the resignations of judges have cast a shadow over the competition's integrity. Moving forward, the organization may need to implement more transparent processes to regain public trust.

Politically, the incident highlights the growing demand for accountability and respect within global platforms. As beauty pageants continue to evolve, they must address these issues to remain relevant and respected in a rapidly changing cultural landscape. The outcome of this year's pageant could serve as a catalyst for broader reforms in the industry.