TV host Andy Cohen will not be hosting the Miss Universe Pageant in Russia after President Vladimir Putin implemented the harsh anti-gay laws.
The openly gay Bravo executive turned down the offer set to be held on November 9 in Moscow.
According to the New York Post, he told Giuliana Rancic, his co-host of the pageant for the past two years, that the country's discriminatory policies make it unsafe for the gays who live there and gays coming to work or visit.
He added that under the law anyone under suspicion of homosexuality can be arrested, and therefore he did not feel right as a gay man to go to Russia.
The Russian legislation threatens prosecution for discussing or supporting gay rights with parades or public events, the report added.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
