The world’s biggest music competition is back for the grand final and taking place in Malmö, Sweden – coincidentally 40 years since the nation’s most famous musical act, ABBA, lifted the trophy with Waterloo.
This will be Eurovision’s 68th run, and with so much history and brand new performers, it’s set to be a big year. Graham Norton will be back to host the show on BBC One, while Richie Anderson, Scott Mills and Rylan Clark will be relaying the action to radio listeners.
“Every night has become a pop quiz in my house. I sit down for dinner with my other half, Dean, and I go, ‘Test me on Moldova.’ He just wants to eat his food,” laughs Richie.
Radio DJ Scott is also looking forward to the event. “I don’t laugh as much ever as I do with Rylan at Eurovision. We’re really good friends in real life and I think that comes through when you watch or hear us,” he says.
With Eurovision, we always expect the unexpected and this year is no different.
“There’s a man who will be performing in flesh-coloured pants, so he’ll look naked,” says Richie. “That’s Finland. Watch out for Malta’s dance break, and you’ve got old-school camp with Iceland.”
“The Netherlands is interesting,” adds Scott. “That’s a guy called Joost and the song is called Europapa. It’s like a bonkers Vengaboys 90s rave song.”
While Scott and Richie insist they are remaining impartial as commentators, they are backing the UK’s entry, Olly Alexander, who will perform his song Dizzy.
“With Olly, you’re dealing with a world-class performer,” says Scott. “We’re very lucky to have someone of that calibre whose childhood dream has been to do Eurovision.”
“I think we’re all going to be so proud of Olly this year,” continues Richie. “They play me the song in advance, but they don’t tell me anything else because I’ve got the biggest mouth at Radio 2!”
The Eurovision Song Contest 2024 begins with the semi-finals on Tuesday 7th May and Thursday 9th May at 8pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. The final will take place on Saturday 10th May at 8pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
