After 16 contests absent, the United Kingdom will be returning to the Junior Eurovision Song Contest, this year in Yerevan!
Previously, the United Kingdom participated in the 2003, 2004 & 2005 contests, under broadcaster ITV, before withdrawing due to low viewing figures. In 2018 & 2019, Wales, one of the four member nations of the United Kingdom, participated independently, but withdrew in 2020.
The BBC, who have organised every UK Eurovision Song Contest participation, and the organisers of the Eurovision Song Contest 2023, have announced that they will be participating at the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2022. The BBC will broadcast the show live on BBC One and CBBC on Sunday 11 December at 4pm.
Details surrounding the United Kingdom’s participation will be revealed shortly including the National Selection show, likely set for broadcast on CBBC, and the commentators for the programme. It is expected that there might be different commentators on the BBC One and CBBC broadcasts.
We are beyond excited to bring the Junior Eurovision Song Contest to the BBC for the first time, and to showcase the diverse young musical talent from across Europe for children and their families to discover and enjoy together. This junior version of Eurovision will undoubtedly encapsulate the same spirit of unity that the adult contest brings, reflecting the heart of what CBBC is all about, an inclusive channel that celebrates the diversity and creativity in all children. I can’t wait to unveil our own musical talent who will proudly represent the UK.
Patricia Hidalgo, Director BBC Children’s and Education
The reason for the UK’s return to the contest is likely due to the renewed interest in Eurovision as a whole, in the United Kingdom, after Sam Ryder’s 2nd place finish in Turin and the news that the UK will be hosting the 2023 edition.
Amazing news, my kids will love it!