In a groundbreaking announcement during the Grand Final of BBC One’s Strictly Come Dancing on Saturday, December 16, 2023, Olly Alexander, one of the world’s most innovative and multi-award-winning music superstars, was revealed as the United Kingdom’s representative at the 68th Eurovision Song Contest in Malmö, Sweden, set to take place in May 2024.
Olly Alexander is a true trailblazer in modern pop music, having achieved tremendous success as a singer, actor, and fashion icon. With three highly successful albums, including two #1 UK albums and 10 UK Top 40 singles, Alexander has firmly established himself as a once-in-a-generation voice in the music industry. His recent accolade, the BRIT Billion Award, with 6.5 billion streams globally, further attests to his global influence.
The transition from Years & Years into a solo project marks a new era for Olly Alexander. His performance in the Russell T Davies show ‘It’s A Sin,’ which won Best New Drama at the National Television Awards, and his nomination for Leading Actor at the 2022 BAFTA Television Awards, showcase his versatility and depth as an artist.
Having headlined arenas and festivals worldwide and collaborated with legendary artists such as Sir Elton John, Kylie, and Pet Shop Boys, Olly Alexander’s icon status was recently cemented with the unveiling of his wax figure at Madame Tussauds London. This recognition is a testament to his significant contribution to changing British culture.
Olly expressed his excitement about representing the UK at Eurovision, stating, "I've loved watching Eurovision ever since I was a little kid, and I'm beyond excited to be taking part next year. 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."
Ben Mortimer, President of Polydor Records, expressed confidence in Olly’s ability to make a significant impact at Eurovision, highlighting the deep connection between Polydor and Sweden’s Eurovision history. Kalpna Patel-Knight, Head of Entertainment at the BBC, emphasized Olly Alexander’s status as a world-renowned artist and passionate Eurovision fan, making him the perfect ambassador for the UK.
Suzy Lamb, MD of Entertainment & Music at BBC Studios, expressed excitement about collaborating with Olly Alexander and promised a special performance for the UK at Eurovision.
Olly’s Eurovision song, co-written with Danny L Harle, is eagerly awaited and will be revealed in due course. The BBC’s Eurovision Song Contest 2024 coverage, a BBC Studios Entertainment production, underscores the commitment to maintaining Eurovision’s momentum, and Olly Alexander’s involvement adds a new dimension to the UK’s participation in this iconic event. With anticipation building, fans eagerly await Olly’s performance as he prepares to fly the flag for the UK in Malmö in the gayest way possible, promising an unforgettable and excellent show for all Eurovision enthusiasts.
