Catriona Gray is Thalia in her recent photo shoot. Gray/Instagram 

Catriona Gray made sure to serve looks as she returned to the Miss Universe stage this year as a backstage host.

In her latest photo shoot, the Philippines' fourth Miss Universe titleholder channeled Mexican superstar Thalia, known among Filipinos for her lead roles in the soap operas "Marimar" and "Rosalinda."

This was her way of paying tribute to the culture of Mexico, the host of the 73rd Miss Universe pageant. 

"For this creative concept, we wanted to celebrate Mexico's musical scene, drawing inspiration from the energy and charisma of Thalia, the queen of Latin pop," said Gray, who won the Miss Universe crown in 2018. 

Gray's fans and fellow celebrities could not help but gush over her latest look, with many of them declaring that she is still one of the best Miss Universe titleholders of all time.

"Queen! Sobra ka na!" said singer Yeng Constantino.

"Gorgeous," added Miss Universe 2022 R'Bonney Gabriel.

Aside from Thalia, Gray also had photo shoots themed after Mexico's bold prints and patterns, as well as Mexican painter Frida Kahlo, and dahlia, the country's national flower.

This is the third time that Gray was tapped to be a commentator in Miss Universe, after its 2022 and 2023 editions in the United States and El Salvador, respectively. 

This year's Miss Universe pageant was won by Victoria Theilvig of Denmark. The Philippines' delegate, Chelsea Manalo, finished in the Top 30 and was proclaimed Miss Universe Asia. 

Denmark wins first Miss Universe crown; PH bet Chelsea Manalo in Top 30

Catriona Gray will be back in Miss Universe 2024 as commentator