Miss Universe: Steve Harvey 'Absolutely' welcome to host again in 2016

The powers that be at Miss Universe appear to think there is no such thing as "bad press."

Dec 22, 2015

The powers that be at Miss Universe appear to think there is no such thing as “bad press.”

Despite an epic faux pas that would likely get most lay people fired (or at the very least suspended), an executive at Miss Universe has said that Steve Harvey is “absolutely” welcome to host the pageant again in 2016.

Mark Shapiro, chief content officer for WME | IMG made the comments on Jim Rome’s CBS Sports Radio show on Tuesday. Shapiro was backstage during the ordeal and says Harvey was “humiliated” after accidentally announcing Miss Colombia Ariadna Gutierrez as Miss Universe when, when in fact, Miss Philippines Pia Wurtzbach had won the crown.

“He was very remorseful in that dressing room. That wasn’t a good scene. I mean, he just felt miserable that he let so many people down,” Shapiro admitted.

Shapiro also dismisses rumors that the fiasco may have been a publicity stunt. “That’s just humorous,” he added. “All I can do is just laugh that off.”

One thing is for sure, thanks to the comic’s gaffe, the Miss Universe organization has gotten more publicity than they have in years. Having Harvey return would be a clear ratings boost for the brand and for FOX.

“[Steve] did a great job,” Shapiro maintains. “He was funny, he was informative, he’s high energy, he’s got a great following… I definitely want him back, and I would hate to see him not come back. He’s going to want a shot to redeem himself.”

You can check out the full interview here.