Eurovision presenter Rylan Clark shared an emotional message ahead of the final. Rylan, who has provided the Eurovision Song Contest semi-finals commentary on BBC One this week with Scott Mills and will host the grand final commentary on BBC Radio Two, took to Twitter to post some heartfelt words.
"Whatever happens tonight, seeing The whole UK embrace @Eurovision as much as I love it has been the most beautiful part of the journey this year. Welcome to the party x" Rylan, 34, typed on the social media platform.
The UK is hosting the contest for a record ninth time in Eurovision history, this year on behalf of Ukraine who won the 2022 contest with Kalush Orchestra's Stefania. Traditionally, the 67th Eurovision Song Contest would have been held in the country of the winners.
READ MORE: Join the FREE Manchester Evening News WhatsApp community
However, the ongoing Russian invasion resulted in the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) deciding it was not a 'viable option' for the country to host the contest. And with the UK's entry Sam Ryder coming second at last year's event, the broadcaster decided we would be the best fit to host the contest this year on Ukraine's behalf.
Following Rylan's post, @mandyglen replied: "Liverpool, you've really done the UK and Ukraine Proud. Bring on the Final. Enjoy it all everyone."
And @mandapen praised: "Your commentary has been brilliant and your enthusiasm and love for #Eurovision has shone through every item you have presented, Rylan. Bravo to you & everyone involved."
@LSemleyHancock told him: "You’ve been a great ambassador. Fingers crossed." And @ccielucas said: "The wholehearted way that everyone has got into Eurovision has given me goose bumps. This is how I feel about Eurovision every year."
@JaneCSweeney exclaimed: "You’re right! So many more people finally get it! The more the merrier!" And @cornwalltrainer applauded: "It’s like it’s has a HUGE glow-up. Very excited."
He also took to Instagram with a snap of himself kissing the coveted Eurovision trophy. "HAPPY FINALE DAYYYYYY @eurovision," he captioned the snap which lead to the official Eurovision Instagram page responding: "Be careful with it @rylan." Meanwhile, the BBC's official Eurovision account commented: "Merry Eurovision babes."
Mae Muller is this year's entry for the UK with the Latin pop song I Wrote A Song, following Sam Ryder's second place success with Space Man.
READ NEXT:
- Stacey Solomon branded 'superwoman' fans and husband Joe Swash as he captures candid moment as she starts new job
- Coronation Street spoiler videos: Max's guilt, Amy threat and Craig left suspicious of Faye
- Coronation Street's Peter Ash praised and told 'thank you' as he takes on challenge after character's diagnosis
- Helen Skelton branded 'hotter than hot' as she puts on glamourous display in white bra as ex shares first baby pic
- Coronation Street's Dame Maureen Lipman told bosses she 'can't go on' as she's seen on the floor on 'last day'