Eurovision Song Contest viewers say they were 'emotional' as they were quick to spot a massive change to Graham Norton's role on the show. The Irish TV star is, quite frankly, a Eurovision legend and viewers are used to watching the action unfold with his quick-witted commentary.
However, as the final of the 67th edition of the contest got underway in Liverpool at the M&S Bank Arena on Saturday night, fans were in for a treat. The grand final of Eurovision 2023 kicked off with a skit featuring last year’s winners Kalush Orchestra performing their hit Stefania with runner-up Sam Ryder playing guitar on the top of the Liver Building and Andrew Lloyd Webber on piano.
Liverpool is hosting on behalf of war-torn Ukraine, who won last year’s contest but are unable to host due to the Russian invasion. And it was Graham Norton welcomed BBC viewers to the final alongside co-hosts Alesha Dixon, Hannah Waddingham and Julia Sanina as they strutted on to the stage.
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Ted Lasso actress Hannah said the UK was "so very proud" to be "taking the reins" and hosting on behalf of Ukraine, while Ukrainian singer Julia thanked the British public. Graham added: "United we are, well out here. But backstage the competition is fierce."
But fans were quick to notice that we don't usually see Graham on screen as he's usually found hidden in the commentary box. That's because Graham wasn't just on commentary duty like in other years.
He was tasked with a second job at Liverpool's M&S Bank Arena as the BBC star was also be presenting the show. So he could carry out his additional role, this year, Graham had a familiar face to help him out with proceedings.
Comedian and former Great British Bake Off host Mel Giedroyc joined the presenter to commentate - with the pair taking turns in the box to bring audiences their unique and expert views on the 2023 acts.
But seeing Graham on stage brought a tear to Eurovision fans' eyes. @kinseyblaine tweeted: "Bit emotional at Graham on the stage! #Eurovision2023." @Ben_Felton00 commented: "Never thought we'd see the day that Graham hosts on stage! #Eurovision."
@aoifedevirgo posted: "I just wanna know how the hell Graham Norton is moving between the commentary box and the main stage SO quick???? MAGIC #eurovision." @kIopptimistic shared: "Seeing Graham Norton actually on a Eurovision stage feels like a fever dream #Eurovision."
@helenjoy9 said: "Don’t let Graham have to present on stage again next year, he’s so much more fun as he gets tipsy!! #EUROVISION." @Satchpiglet tweeted: "Having our Graham on the stage feels wrong. Get on the Prosecco Norton, get off screen and start getting snide. #Eurovision #Eurovision2023."
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