Natalie Glebova was crowned Miss Universe 2005 in Bangkok on Tuesday at the climax of a beauty pageant that once again managed to stumble into controversy with religious conservatives.

The stunning brunette of Russian origin was chosen from five contestants - the four others from Latin America - who were selected to answer questions onstage in the final round of the competition.

The 12-judge panel chose beauties from Mexico, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Venezuela and Canada for the final round. Miss Puerto Rico was the first runner-up.

Natalie was crowned Miss Universe 2005 by ex-Miss Universe 2004 Jennifer Hawkins of Australia.

Natalie Glebova was born in Russia and moved to Canada with her parents when she was 12. A student of marketing communications, Natalie plays piano and writes her own music, but says her most unusual talent "is being able to read upside down just as well right side up," according to the Miss Universe website.

When she was asked what she considered the biggest challenge of her life, Natalie Glebova said it was remaining optimistic. “I always try to maintain a positive outlook on life,” she said, according to MSNBC.

"The Miss Universe contest has been around for more than 50 years and continues to be one of the most watched television programs around the world. With Donald Trump getting on board the interest in the United States is going to be even greater this year," says Alex Czajkowski of Sportsbook.com. 

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