THE 2008 Miss Universe Pageant to take place at the Crown Convention Center in Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa, Vietnam on Sunday, July 13 will be broadcast live on NBC (starting 7 A.M. Monday, Saudi time). The show hosts this year are Jerry Springer, host of NBC's hit summer show, “America's Got Talent,” and actress/singer Melanie Brown, better known as Mel B of the Spice Girls. “This is obviously a great honor and getting to work alongside Mel B makes it even better,” said Springer. Mel who is currently working on her third solo album, slated for release in early 2009. was thrilled as well. “I believe the diversity and dedication that the pageant brings inspires and empowers young women across the globe,” she said. The Miss Universe 2008 show has 80 contestants representing 80 countries. Japan native, Riyo Mori, Miss Universe 2007 will crown her successor at the conclusion of the telecast. During her reign, she has traveled the world as an advocate for HIV/AIDS education, research, and legislation.
