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BBC confirms Eurovision replacement
Graham Norton
Gay comedian Graham Norton is confirmed as the new host of Eurovision
"Sir Terry is nothing less than legend and is an impossible act to follow, but somebody must and I just couldn't say noââ¬Â¦"
The BBC today confirmed that Graham Norton will replace Sir Terry Wogan as the new host of the Eurovision Song Contest.
Despite recently denying the rumours that he was set to replace BBC stalwart Wogan, gay comedian Norton has confirmed that he will be taking over hosting duties at next year’s contest. Norton said of the announcement:
"Sir Terry is nothing less than legend and is an impossible act to follow, but somebody must and I just couldn't say no… I can't wait to get to Moscow. With a combination of cheap vodka and a language barrier what could possibly go wrong?"
Sir Terry Wogan, who fronted the show for 35 years, recently accused the show of political nepotism, saying it was "no longer a music contest". He continued:
"I've had 35 wonderful years commentating on the Eurovision for radio and television.
"From my first, in a small musichall in Dublin, to my last, in the huge arena in Belgrade, it has been nothing but laughter and fun… The silly songs, the spectacle, the grandiose foolishness of it all.
He also spoke of his hopes for the future of the competition by saying:
"Let's hope that between (Norton) and the musical brilliance of Lloyd Webber, Royaume Uni will gather its proper share of 'Douze Points' and bring the Grand Prix home to where it belongs."
Wogan was awarded an honorary knighthood in 2005 as part of the Queen's Birthday Honours. A popular entertainer from Limerick, Ireland he has been working on television and radio for over 40 years.
Graham Norton is also a popular face of British television, hosting his own chat show as part of a multi-million pound BBC deal.
The next Eurovision Song Contest will be held on 16th May 2009 at the Olympic Indoor Arena, Moscow.
