EUROVISION 2024: GRAHAM MEETS OLLY
Friday, BBC1, 10.40pm
POP fans who hoped Sam Ryder’s impressive showing at Eurovision in 2022 was a sign of things to come may have been disappointed when last year the UK finished 25th.
However, if anyone can prove that Sam’s performance wasn’t a blip, it’s this year’s Eurovision entrant, Olly Alexander. As the frontman of Years &
Years, he’s already got two number one UK albums and 10 UK
Top 40 singles to his name, and won plaudits for his performance in the acclaimed Channel 4 drama It’s a Sin.
In fact, he’s so successful some people may be wondering why he’s taking a gamble on Eurovision. After all, if he does well, he may be hailed a national hero, but if he does badly, he’s got a much higher profile than some of our recent entries.
It seems the answer is fairly straightforward – he’s just a big Eurovision fan.
Olly says: “I’ve loved watching Eurovision ever since I was a little kid and I’m beyond excited to be taking part. As a young boy I always looked forward to this incredible event of unbridled joy, the wonderfully chaotic mix of musical styles, theatrical performances, heartfelt emotion and humour.
“I really can’t believe I’m going to be a part of such a special legacy and fly the flag for the UK in the gayest way possible, it shall be an honour!”
He adds: “I’m determined to give it everything I’ve got and put on an excellent and unforgettable performance for you all!” To mark the release of his entry, Dizzy, he’s meeting Graham Norton for a chat about all things Eurovision.
The show is followed by The Big Eurovision Party, direct from the Ziggo Dome in Amsterdam. Performers include song contest legends Conchita Wurst, Johnny Logan, Kaarija, Mans Zelmerlow, Cornelia Jakobs, Gjon’s Tears, Alessandra and Rosa Linn. Edsilia Rombley is our host while Rylan Clarke takes us backstage to chat to the stars.