Out of the 89 candidates around the world, 20-year-old cellist Miss USA Olivia Culpo took the crown as this year’s Miss Universe during the coronation night held in Las Vegas on Wednesday, December 19. (US Time)
Miss Philippines Janine Tugonon, the only Asian candidate who made it to the Top 10, was named first runner-up. Wearing a powder blue gown by Alfredo Barraza, Janine answered fashion photographer judge Nigel Barker's Twitter question during the Q & A portion.
"Should speaking English be a prerequisite to being Miss Universe as an international ambassador?" Janine confidently said, “For me, being Miss Universe is not just about knowing how to speak a specific language. It’s being able to influence and inspire other people. So whatever language you have, as long as your heart is to serve and you have a strong mind to show to people, then you can be Miss Universe.”
[CHECK OUT MISS UNIVERSE 2012 LIVE BLOG RECAP]
Miss Venezuela Irene Sofia Esser Quintero placed second runner-up, Miss Australia Renae Ayris bagged the third runner-up and Miss Brazil Gabriela Markus was named fourth runner-up.
Completing the Top 10 are Miss France, Miss Hungary, Miss South Africa, Miss Mexico, and Miss Russia.
Among the judges were Pablo Sandoval of the World Series champion Giants, “Iron Chef” host Masaharu Morimoto, celebrity stylist Brad Goreski, Miss Universe 2010 Ximena Navarrete. Andy Cohen, Gulliana Rancic and Jeannie Mai hosted the event.
MORE PHOTOS:
[Miss Universe Top 16 announcement]
[Miss Universe Top 16 in their swimwear]
[Miss Universe Top 10 in their long gowns]
