Miss Universe Says She Won’t Share Her Crown With Miss Colombia

2 minute read

Miss Universe Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach has finally gone on record about calls to share her crown with Miss Colombia Ariadna Gutierrez-Arévalo – who was publicly humiliated by Steve Harvey‘s epic gaffe.

Wurtzbach would like to keep the title all to herself, please and thank you.

The 26-year-old Filipina-German model and actress, who was crowned Miss Universe after Harvey mistakenly named Gutierrez the new title holder, appeared on Good Morning America to kick off her year-long reign on Monday. During the interview she – gracefully – responded to the calls for joint-winners.

“I think it would be a little bit difficult for two girls to share a crown,” Wurtzbach told GMA‘s Lara Spencer.

She added that she understands why Gutierrez’s home country is upset over the incident, and said, “I have high hopes that this will give great opportunities for me and Miss Colombia.”

Wurtzbach said she has spoken to Gutierrez since the pageant, and told Spencer that the model “seems like she’s okay.”

“I understand how she feels,” she shared, adding, “I know that she’s a beautiful young lady – very talented. I think that she’ll have a lot of other opportunities.”

The star also has no hard feelings toward Harvey. She said he should be given the chance host Miss Universe again next year, calling him a “breath of fresh air.”

“He made us feel very relaxed, the contestants,” she said. “It makes us show our personalities a little bit more. I think that benefits everybody, especially the viewers.”

Drama aside, Wurtzbach is “so excited” to begin her work in her new capacity. “It’s surreal. I’m so happy,” she said.

The star said that her victory was a “big deal” in the Philippines, as they hadn’t entered a winner in 42 years.

She said, “Everyone’s been anticipating to finally get the crown and we did.”

Wurtzbach will focus on an array of causes, including HIV awareness, during her reign but for now she’s still getting used to the crown.

“It’s a little bit heavy but I’m not complaining,” she admitted. “It can stay there for a long time.”

This article originally appeared on People.com

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