IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser.

Natalie Morales: Hosting 'Miss USA' an honor

What did you think when they asked you to host?I must admit that when they asked me to host Miss USA I thought, "Really, me?" I never would have dreamed of sharing the stage with 51 beauty contestants.But what an honor, and I'm thrilled I was selected to co-host the pageant this weekend in Las Vegas along with Food Network and "The Celebrity Apprentice" star Curtis Stone. It's always such a glamor

What did you think when they asked you to host?

I must admit that when they asked me to host Miss USA I thought, "Really, me?" I never would have dreamed of sharing the stage with 51 beauty contestants.

But what an honor, and I'm thrilled I was selected to co-host the pageant this weekend in Las Vegas along with Food Network and "The Celebrity Apprentice" star Curtis Stone. It's always such a glamorous event and I look forward to meeting the gorgeous contestants.

What you think about the controversial photos this week?

It will be very interesting to see how the controversy surrounding the photo shoot this week will play into the live show itself.

None of the girls has said she was uncomfortable; in fact, quite the opposite. I've heard many of the contestants say they felt the photos made them feel even more beautiful and empowered, which is the goal of the Miss Universe Organization. The Miss USA pageant also features a bikini competition, so that's not that much different than what we see in the black and white photos.

I do think the controversy though -- which by the way led to millions of people Googling and searching for the photos -- will also translate to a very highly rated show.

What goes into getting ready to host the pageant?

There's a lot of trying on gowns and bad mistakes with self tanners.  I'm just trying to not glow in the dark on stage -- I think the bottom of my feet absorbed a little self tanner and are a bit orange.  Whatever I do, I know I still will be the palest person on stage.

Also, I will rehearse, rehearse, rehearse starting from the time I arrive in Las Vegas Friday. The schedule is non-stop! There are going to be some new features; for example, for the first time Joan and Melissa Rivers will be backstage providing color commentary and giving us an inside look what happens behind the scenes.

What are you looking forward to from the event itself?

I most look forward to the live show on Sunday and experiencing the emotion I know those girls will be going through up there on stage.

It's taken them years of smaller, local pageants to get there to Las Vegas.

This is the moment they've been waiting for that crown or not, just being on that stage is such a thrill and they're all winners.

I'm excited for them and nervous at the same time.  I know it will be an emotional moment when we know who the next Miss USA will be.

What will it be like working with Curtis Stone?

Curtis is a TODAY regular, so anytime he's on with us I know it's going to be a great time.

He is just so cool and sweet and talented. He is a total pro. I wish he was cooking for us, but no time for that.  Co-hosting with him at Miss USA will be a fantastic time.

For more about the "Miss USA" pageant, click here.