Sweden’s all set for Euro song contest showdown
As Eurovision excitement heats up ahead of the final, RACHAEL POPOW gives us the lowdown of what to expect from the contest
Winning the Eurovision Song Contest is always a cause for celebration, but Sweden must have been especially thrilled when Loreen finished first in 2023 with Tattoo.
Not only did it bring the country’s winning total to seven, so they now tie with Ireland as the most successful country in the contest’s history, but it meant they could host this year, which is poignant because 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of Abba giving them their iconic first win with Waterloo.
The ceremony is coming from Malmo Arena, and is hosted by singer and two-time Eurovision presenter Petra Mede, alongside Swedish-born Hollywood star Malin Akerman.
Petra says: “Imagine getting the chance to host Eurovision once again! It’s such an incredible honour. After first hosting it alone and then together with the delightful Mans Zelmerlow by my side, I am now really looking forward to working with Malin.”
Malin, whose Hollywood credits include movies like Watchmen and 27 dresses, adds: “I can’t really describe my feelings about this. I am very excited and a little nervous, but in a positive way. I have always liked Eurovision and to be a part of this fantastic show together with Petra is a dream come true.
Once again, Graham Norton will provide the BBC commentary, while the UK’s hopes for a win rest on actor and singer Olly Alexander and his song Dizzy.
Last year proved a bit of a disappointment for British Eurovision fans when Mae Muller placed 25th, so the former Years & Years frontman will be trying to prove that Sam Ryder’s second place in 2022 wasn’t a blip.
He’s certainly excited to be taking part, telling the BBC: “There’s just nothing else like Eurovision. Growing up, there was this one night of the year that was this night of insane craziness – a chaotic mix of fun and all these different musical styles, all these amazing performances.”
Olly will face strong competition though, with Switzerland emerging as the bookies’ favourite with Nemo and song The Code.
As one of the so-called ‘Big Five’, the UK is guaranteed a place in Saturday’s Grand Final along with Germany, Italy, Spain and France, while reigning champs Sweden also qualify automatically. The host nation is represented by 22-year-old identical twins Marcus & Martinus with Unforgettable.
Martinus joked this week that it would be “way easier to win” if Abba were on stage with them in Malmo, adding: “We have to focus on our own number. We’re going to do what represents us, but of course, it would be nice to have Abba supporters on our side.”
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The Eurovision Song Contest 2024 Grand Final is on Saturday, BBC1 at 8pm