Graham Norton (Eurovision Song Contest 2009) Interview
Graham Norton makes his debut as commentator at this year's Eurovision Song Contest, live on BBC One at 8pm on Saturday 16 May.
Have you learnt any Russian in preparation?
I haven't learnt any Russian yet but I'm sure we will all communicate through the international language of music.
How do you feel about stepping into Terry's shoes?
I can't even think about trying to fill Terry's shoes. Over the last 35 years he has turned Eurovision into the much-loved institution it is today. Obviously being asked to take over is a huge honour but when it comes to doing the job on the night I'll just be trying not to hear Terry's voice in my head and hopefully come up with a few comments of my own.
Has Terry given any tips, have you been in touch?
I haven't spoken to Terry about the job, though he has been very encouraging in a few interviews he has given and I'm sure he knows what a big fan I am of his.
How will you overcome any nerves you may have on the big night?
I think I'll be too nervous for Andrew and Jade to have any of my own.
Are you going to meet any of the other countries' commentators – do you all have a get-together?
I don't know if the commentators all hang out. I imagine us all sitting in our little booths like battery hens just clucking away in our different languages.
What do you think of this year's UK entry?
I think this year's UK entry is world class. Having Andrew involved alongside the legendary songwriter Diane Warren makes it something very special indeed. Add to that Jade's extraordinary talent and beauty and I think we have a very strong package.
What do you think the UK entry needs to do, apart from win?
A miracle! No, the best we can do is get a song and act we are proud of in the UK. Then if Europe doesn't like it – well it's their loss!
How do you think Jade Ewen, the UK entry, will do?
She has her work cut out this time – I've seen the stadium in Moscow they have to perform in! It’s huge!
What to you think of the other entries this year?
I've heard some of the other entries and was impressed by the standard. I think this years contest promises to be one of the best for years.
How will you handle it if the UK gets null points?
I can't imagine the UK getting null points but if we do there really isn't much of a choice – you just grin and bear it and avoid Andrew at the after-show party.
How are you going to survive three hours in a commentary box?
I'm approaching my time in the commentary box like a long-haul flight, except there hopefully won't be any turbulence and the in-flight entertainment just happens to be the Eurovision Song Contest.
What did you think about the Olympiyski Indoor Arena, Moscow?
You could fit 13 London Palladiums in it – it was daunting just to stand there – let alone sing, but you can see how much the Russians are putting into the programme so it's going to be quite a show!
What are you looking forward to most about Eurovision 2009?
I've never been to a Eurovision contest before so I'm really looking forward to soaking up the excitement and atmosphere in the Olympiyski Indoor Arena and of course the moment when Jade walks out on the stage.
What was the first Eurovision Song Contest you remember, why did that act in particular stand out for you?
My earliest Eurovision memory is of Dana winning the Contest with All Kinds Of Everything. It was the most exciting moment of my very young life.
What's been your favourite UK act? What's been your favourite act of the whole Eurovision?
Sandie Shaw and Puppet On A String was my favourite I think. Overall Dana International is probably my top act.
How would you usually spend a Eurovision night?
I always try to see Eurovision go out live, though strangely I have never been to an organised Eurovision party. On the night I'll be giving shout-outs to people who are having get-togethers and drinking games based around the competition.
> Read our interview with Andrew Lloyd Webber.
> Read our interview with Jade Ewen.
