( CNN ) -- Pageants are nerve-wracking . Participants are judged on every aspect of their looks , personality and ability to discuss anything from affirmative action to peace in the Middle East -- all in front of thousands , sometimes millions of people . As Miss Utah , Marissa Powell , demonstrated in Sunday 's Miss USA contest , it 's not always easy to think on your feet in such circumstances . Whether you 're a model , talent show contestant or member of the local Toastmasters chapter , things can get pretty awkward when you lose your composure in front of a crowd . But at least we can look back on those flubs and and smile , right ? Here are some of the most cringe-worthy pageant moments of recent memory . If you are reading this on mobile or some outdated browser , you wo n't be able to see this story in all its glory . Click here instead . .
Talent shows prime opportunity onstage flubs , as Miss Utah and other contestants have proven . It 's not easy to describe your views on world affairs in front of millions of people . Comment: Follow CNN Living on Facebook and Twitter .