The BBC has revealed the United Kingdom will compete in the Junior Eurovision Song Contest later this year after a gap of 17 years The broadcaster will be airing the singing contest for the first time in its history when it takes place this December.
The 20th Junior Eurovision Song Contest, which is for children aged between nine and 14, will take place in Yerevan, Armenia, on Sunday, December 11, following Maléna’s winning performance with Qami Qami in 2021. A process is now underway to select an act and song to represent the UK at the competition and is being led by CBBC with BBC Studios entertainment and music.
Patricia Hidalgo, director of BBC Children’s and Education, said: “We are beyond excited to bring the Junior Eurovision Song Contest to the BBC for the first time, and to showcase the diverse young musical talent from across Europe for children and their families to discover and enjoy together.
“This junior version of Eurovision will undoubtedly encapsulate the same spirit of unity that the adult contest brings, reflecting the heart of what CBBC is all about, an inclusive channel that celebrates the diversity and creativity in all children. I can’t wait to unveil our own musical talent who will proudly represent the UK.”
The junior competition was first broadcast on ITV during its inaugural edition in 2003 in Copenhagen, Denmark, the UK came third. But the UK hasn't entered the competition since the 2005 event.
The news comes as it was revealed in July that the BBC will host next year’s Eurovision Song Contest in the United Kingdom on behalf of Ukraine - who won the 2022 contestant earlier this year, with the UK coming in second place. Seven UK cities have now been shortlisted to host and the city which has been successful in its bid is expected to be announced in the Autumn.
The junior contest will air on CBBC, BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Further details on who will be commentating for the UK will be announced in due course.
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