Mexico Wins Miss Universe Pageant

 NEW YORK  -- During one of the year's most exciting live international television events, a star-studded panel of judges chose Jimena Navarrete, Miss Mexico, as MISS UNIVERSE 2010 live from Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. Bret Michaels and NBC's "Today" show co-host and correspondent Natalie Morales hosted the international event, which aired on NBC and Telemundo. John Legend & The Roots and Viva ELVIS by Cirque du Soleil performed live during the competition. 

Miss Mexico, Jimena Navarrete, is 21 years old and loves nature, boating, riding motorcycles, spending time with her family and traveling.

The judging panel for the 2010 Miss Universe Pageant included: illusionist and mystifier, Criss Angel; actor, producer and writer, William Baldwin; world-renowned percussionist and drummer, Sheila E; anchor of "NBC Live," Tamron Hall; 2010 Olympic Gold Medalist and 2009 World Figure Skating Champion, Evan Lysacek; Oscar nominated actor and director best known for his work in A Bronx Tale, Chazz Palminteri; American singer and actress, Chynna Phillips; winner of multiple Emmys and Golden Globes, Jane Seymour; and international supermodel, Niki Taylor.

Throughout the two-hour event, contestants from over 80 countries and territories around the world competed in three categories: swimsuit, evening gown and personality interview. Stefania Fernandez, Miss Universe 2009, crowned her successor at the conclusion of the two-hour primetime telecast before an estimated worldwide viewing audience of approximately one billion viewers.

Final Results:

First Runner-Up:  Miss Jamaica, Yendi Phillipps; will assume the duties of MISS UNIVERSE 2010 if the titleholder for some reason cannot fulfill her responsibilities.

Second Runner-Up:  Miss Australia, Jesinta Campbell.

Rest of Top Five: Miss Ukraine, Anna Poslavska; and Miss Philippines, Venus Raj.

Rest of Top Ten:  Miss Ireland, Rozanna Purcell; Miss Albania, Angela Martini; Miss Puerto Rico, Mariana Paola Vicente; Miss South Africa, Nicole Flint; and Miss Guatemala, Jessica Scheel.

Rest of Top Fifteen:  Miss Belgium, Cilou Annys; Miss France, Malika Menard; Miss Russia, Irina Antonenko; Miss Colombia,Natalia Navarro; and Miss Czech Republic, Jitka Valkova.

Miss Photogenic Universe™ Award: Miss Thailand, Fonthip Watcharatrakul. The General public voted on www.nbc.com for the delegate who exemplifies beauty through the lens of a camera. She was awarded a $1,000 cash prize and a gift from pageant sponsor Diamond Nexus Labs.

Miss Congeniality Universe™ Award: Miss Australia, Jesinta Campbell. This award reflects the respect and admiration of the delegate's peers, who voted for her as the most congenial, charismatic and inspirational participant. She was awarded a$1,000 cash prize and a gift from Diamond Nexus Labs.

National Costume Award: Miss Thailand, Fonthip Watcharatrakul. This award was decided by an online vote through Club Universe, a new, exclusive membership club featured on MissUniverse.com.  

The MISS UNIVERSE® 2010 prize package includes: a custom diamond tiara and jewelry designed by Diamond Nexus Labs; a shoe wardrobe from Nina Footwear; a one-year scholarship (including housing) from the New York Film Academy; hair care products and tools from Farouk Systems; eveningwear wardrobe by Sherri Hill; a collection of swimwear from Dar Be Dar by Tala Raassi; luxury accommodations in a New York City apartment for the duration of her reign, including living expenses; a year-long salary as Miss Universe; personal services including membership to Gravity Fitness and hair services from John Barrett Salon; modeling portfolio by leading fashion photographer Fadil Berisha; dermatology and skincare services provided by Dr. Cheryl Thellman-Karcher; professional health and nutrition consultation by Tanya Zuckerbrot, MS, RD and dental services by Dr. Jan Linhart, D.D.S.; casting opportunities and professional representation by the Miss Universe Organization; extensive travel opportunities representing sponsors and charitable partners; access to various New York City events including movie premiers and screenings, Broadway shows and launch parties; year-long consultation with a fashion stylist; and access to a personal appearance wardrobe.