Miss Universe 2013: Gabriela Isler of Venezuela the winner; Spain’s Patricia Rodriguez runner-up

The Miss Universe Pageant is always an intense one, and this year, the lineup was no exception at all. Despite a few continents really not having that much when it comes to representation, there was an intense showdown that took place in Russia today, with one of the contestants taking home the title that is valued by many all around the world.

We wrote previously that Miss USA Erin Brady was out of the running in the top 10, and the top 5 is as follows: Constanza Baez of Ecuador, Jakelyne Oliveira of Brazil, Patricia Rodriguez of Spain, Ariella Arida of Philippines (who was voted in by the audience), and Gabriela Isler of Venezuela.

Who was the winner? It was Venezuela! The South American country took home the title, while Spain ended up scoring the first-runner-up title, and Ecuador following her up. Miss Philippines ended up in the third-runner-up position, and was then followed by Brazil. The title was handed to Isler by reigning champion Olivia Culpo, who became the star of the American beauty pageant circuit last year for pulling off a feat that had not been done in over a decade.

The biggest thing that baffles us about the way in which this show is broadcast is America is simple: The way in which it airs in America. Why is this not airing live, and on in another time instead in primetime? Given that almost everyone is going to be out doing other things tonight, let alone the spoilers that always get out over Twitter, it makes so much more sense to just have the show on in the afternoon as perfect counter-programming for everything else that is on, which includes a massive slate of college football. (It may actually be sports that keeps the show off the air, since NBC does air some of the games especially if Notre Dame is involved).

What do you think: Did the right person win the Miss Universe Pageant? Be sure to share some of your thoughts below!

Photo: Miss Universe