Legendary Eurovision contestants return

The Eurovision Song Contest is the biggest night in European music, and this year's event promises to be a high-pressure affair. Host Hannah Waddingham has warned that the performers will need to make a big impact to stand out.

Both semi-finals, on May 9 and 11, broadcast on BBC One and BBC iPlayer will be presented by Alesha Dixon, Julia Sanina, and Hannah Waddingham. Eurovision legend Graham Norton will join them for the Grand Final on Saturday, May 13.

Hannah Waddingham has shared a message for all the performers waiting to take the stage in Liverpool: "Make it count now. You are never going to be on a bigger stage in your life. Make us remember you and then some pressure."

Alesha Dixon joked: "It's like, where do you go from there after you've performed in front of 165 million people? It kind of goes downhill, really, but start as you mean to go on."

For the first time since 1998, the United Kingdom will play host to the Eurovision Song Contest in 2023, on behalf of last year’s winners Ukraine who are unable to host due to the ongoing war.

The BBC has promised a night that will see the UK and Ukraine united through music, with links to the host country interwoven throughout the semi-finals and Grand Final.

During the Eurovision Flag Parade of all 26 Grand Finalists, viewers will be treated to a unique performance by some iconic past Ukrainian Eurovision contestants.

The second semi-final's interval will include a performance titled ‘Music Unites Generations’, exploring the connection between generations of Ukrainians and the music they love.

Viewers can also look forward to exciting Eurovision-themed programmes throughout the week, including a legendary Eurovision figure making an appearance in Albert Square.

In conclusion, Kate Phillips, BBC Director of Unscripted, expressed the broadcaster's excitement and commitment to producing world-class Eurovision content, and to making Ukraine proud. The level of collaboration and coordination across the various programs is impressive, and viewers can expect a truly amazing show.