The only drawback, according to Eurovision host Rylan Clark, of the event taking place in the UK this year is that he’ll have to behave himself at the after-show festivities.
“No one knows who we are when we’re in Turin or Tel Aviv or other places like that, so we can get away with murder.” I’ve got to be good this year,’ he joked.
Together with DJ Scott Mills, Rylan will be in Liverpool to provide commentary for this year’s semi-finals on BBC1 and finals on BBC Radio 2. The two acknowledged that they’ll need to act appropriately while in the city.
‘That’s the only downside,’ said singer-turned-presenter Rylan. ‘I love Liverpool. I love the city.
‘We are so excited and without sounding ridiculously stupid, we feel so welcome here in Liverpool.’
He continued: ‘My X Factor bootcamp was in that arena and then I went on tour in that arena, so I’ve got quite a lot of special personal memories, and the only downside is that we can’t get away with what we normally do.’
Rylan stated that he envies those who make the trip to the competition for the first time.
‘When you have your first Eurovision – mine was Lisbon – being a fan and actually being able to go to Eurovision and that feeling the second you land at that airport, wherever it is, the whole city is taken over by Eurovision, and for that one week you are all in that bubble. There is nothing like it,’ he said.
‘For that one week you just forget your troubles and it’s all about the contest, and everyone is having a lovely time. It doesn’t matter who you are.’
And he adds that even those who weren’t fortunate enough to obtain tickets for the main event should come and take in the atmosphere, as there are dozens of free performances to see throughout the city every week, in addition to a jam-packed schedule of side events, such as EuroClub, a huge nine-day party hosted by the largest Eurovision fan club in the world.
‘There is so much on. This year, more than ever, you don’t need a ticket. You can be in the street and it’s still happening. You’re going to love it and I’m jealous of you all.’
While Rylan may have to cut back on his usual partying, he has declared that there is no way he will miss a Eurovision classic, Scouse duo Jemini, who are best known for receiving zero points and placing last in the 2003 competition due to technical difficulties.
‘We thought announcing Liverpool was exciting, but Jemini are playing EuroClub. This is their 20 year anniversary.
‘I’m so excited I’m actually sweating.’
