Kristhielee Caride will not represent Puerto Rico at the 2016 Miss Universe pageant after clashing with the national director over public appearances and an alleged attitude problem, according to reports.
Caride won the Miss Puerto Rico title four months ago and was slated to represent the island on a global stage. But after she was dismissive in an interview with a local newspaper -- reportedly saying she "didn't love the cameras" and shutting down a reporter's questions -- the national director of Miss Universe Puerto Rico replaced her, The Associated Press reported.
"I wanted the earth to swallow me," director Desiree Lowry said. "You always have to put your best face forward ... it's a given that we are going to be in front of cameras and that we have to answer all types of questions."
Lowry said Caride did not apologize to the newspaper or Miss Universe officials, but later explained she was going through personal problems and saying that the incident would not happen again, the Associated Press reported. However, Caride reportedly canceled other appearances to keep a doctor's appointment she refused to reschedule.
Caride took to Facebook on Thursday to defend her actions, but also to apologize for letting her personal life affect her role as Miss Universe Puerto Rico.
"I allowed my feelings to get in the way of my work," she wrote.
Caride said she did not agree with the decision that Lowry and other officials made, but that she was turning in her sash with dignity.
Lowry presented the new Miss Universe contestant at a news conference Thursday in the capital of San Juan. Brenda Jimenez appeared in a sparkling tiara and a strapless red dress with a somewhat surprised look on her face, The Associated Press reported.
