Miss Universe 2021 winner shocked by Steve Harvey’s question
The 21-year-old was taken aback by the TV host’s request, as she was “not expecting to do this on the world stage” — prompting viewer outcry.
Miss Universe Australia has missed out on a spot in the top 16 despite making a showstopping appearance at the event.
Daria Varlamova competed at the 70th annual Miss Universe pageant in Eilat, Israel, appearing on stage during the Sunday night finale.
Miss Universe India Harnaaz Sandhu ended up taking out the top spot, beating out Miss Universe Paraguay Nadia Ferreira.
But while fans of Harnaaz applauded her win, they also criticised pageant host Steve Harvey’s treatment of her in a question and answer segment for the top 16 contestants earlier in the show.
Harvey, who is a well-known US TV personality and hosts Family Feud, asked Harnaaz: “I hear you do some pretty good animal impersonations. Let’s hear your best one.”
Appearing surprised she replied: “Oh my god, Steve, I was not expecting to do this on the world stage.”
Joking that she had “no other option”, Harnaaz let out several meows, Insider reported.
While Harvey’s question was clearly intended as lighthearted fun, many viewers on Twitter questioned why Harnaaz hadn’t being given the same chance to talk about her career and philanthropic work as other the contestants had.
The 21-year-old is an up and coming actress who also helps her mother teach women hygiene and health at camps.
OMG Miss India meowing at Steve Harvey is not what I was expecting to see tonight. Pretty sure the Miss Universe organization could have asked a better question… very frustrating but she was nothing if not confident.
— Sarakshi Rai (@Sarakshi) December 13, 2021
What a ridiculous first question was that? Miss India had so much more to say… #MissUniverse2021
— Katerine 🦋 (@KaterineAriasH) December 13, 2021
Steve Harvey really had Miss India meowing on the world stage bruh #MissUniverse
— D (@daniecetracey) December 13, 2021
On Saturday Miss Universe Australia Daria competed in the preliminary stage of the competition, looking incredible in a high-waisted bikini and leopard print sarong.
Daria also debuted this year’s national costume for Australia, with the outfit an elaborate dress by Jonte Designs featuring ruffled layers, floral embellishments and a matching headpiece by Atelier Eight.
During an appearance on The Morning Show last month she explained that the costume was a tribute to Australia’s unique environment.
“They are representative of the beautiful landscapes and terrains of the Northern Territory and northern Western Australia,” Daria said.
“You can see that represented in this beautiful blue skirt, which is like a cascading waterfall and beautiful flora and crystals.”
In October Daria was crowned Miss Universe Australia in October, with the student winning after previously competing as a teen.
Born in Russia and raised in Western Australia, Daria is studying a Masters of Counselling in Melbourne with plans to become a psychotherapist.
As well as studying Daria runs workshops for young girls on topics like mental health and happiness.
She follows 2020 winner Maria Thattil, who competed in the Miss Universe competition in May after it was delayed due to covid and placed in the top 10.
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