EUROVISION HEADS TO THE U.K.

The U.K. will be the host country for Eurovision in 2023 after safety issues led officials to rule out Ukraine, which won this year’s competition and had the rights to host next year’s event.

Ukraine’s Kalush Orchestra was crowned the winner for its song “Stefania”; the U.K. came in second with Sam Ryder’s “Space Man.”

Eurovision Executive Supervisor Martin Österdahl said the 2023 edition “will showcase the creativity and skill of one of Europe’s most experienced public broadcasters whilst ensuring this year’s winners, Ukraine, are celebrated and represented throughout the event.” Representatives from Ukrainian broadcaster UA:PBC will work with the BBC, which will begin the process of choosing a host city soon, on the Ukrainian elements of the show.

“The BBC is committed to making the event a true reflection of Ukrainian culture and showcasing the diversity of British music and creativity,” said BBC Director General Tim Davie.

Interest in the competition has intensified since Italy’s Måneskin took home the prize in 2021 and has since produced global hit records and tours.