Olly Alexander to talk Eurovision with Rylan on Radio 2 today

Olly Alexander will discuss representing the UK in Eurovision 2024 on BBC Radio 2 this afternoon, as he joins Rylan on Radio 2 from 2pm.

Renowned music sensation Olly Alexander, celebrated for his groundbreaking achievements and numerous accolades, has been chosen to represent the United Kingdom at the 68th Eurovision Song Contest in Malmö, Sweden, scheduled for May 2024.

Olly shared this exciting news with a jubilant studio audience and millions of viewers during the Grand Final of BBC One’s Strictly Come Dancing on December 16. As he embarks on his inaugural solo release, Olly Alexander continues to assert himself as one of the most innovative figures in contemporary pop music. With three highly successful albums, two #1 UK albums, 10 UK Top 40 singles, and a BRIT Billion Award for 6.5 billion global streams, he stands as a trailblazer in the modern pop landscape.

Transitioning from Years & Years to a solo venture, Olly has solidified his status as a once-in-a-generation voice. His role in the acclaimed Russell T Davies show ‘It’s A Sin,’ which won Best New Drama at the National Television Awards, further underscores his versatility, earning him a nomination for Leading Actor at the 2022 BAFTA Television Awards.

Having graced arenas and festivals worldwide and collaborated with icons like Sir Elton John, Kylie, and Pet Shop Boys, Olly Alexander’s iconic presence has been immortalized at Madame Tussauds London. Now, as the representative for the UK at Eurovision, he adds a new chapter to his storied career, symbolizing a pop star who has left an indelible mark on British culture.

Expressing his enthusiasm, Olly Alexander stated, “I’ve loved watching Eurovision ever since I was a little kid, and I’m beyond excited to be taking part next year. As a young boy, I always looked forward to this incredible event of unbridled joy, the wonderfully chaotic mix of musical styles, theatrical performances, heartfelt emotion, and humor. I really can’t believe I’m going to be a part of such a special legacy and fly the flag for the UK in the gayest way possible; it shall be an honor! I’ve wanted to do this for a long time, and it feels like the right moment to start releasing music under my own name. I’m determined to give it everything I’ve got and put on an excellent and unforgettable performance for you all!”

Ben Mortimer, President of Polydor Records, expressed pride in supporting Olly’s Eurovision journey, emphasizing his incredible talent and cultural impact. The sentiment was echoed by Kalpna Patel-Knight, Head of Entertainment at the BBC, highlighting Olly Alexander’s role as a perfect ambassador for the UK in the esteemed competition.

Suzy Lamb, MD of Entertainment & Music at BBC Studios, added, “BBC Studios is so excited to be working with the incredible Olly Alexander to create something very special for the UK at Eurovision. Olly is a world-class, charismatic performer, and we can’t wait for him to raise the roof at next year’s contest in Sweden.”

All three live Eurovision 2024 programs, including both Semi Finals and the Grand Final, will be broadcast on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on May 7, 9, and 11, 2024. Olly’s Eurovision song, co-written with Danny L Harle, will be unveiled in due course.