19 April 2023 , 19:25
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Eurovision legend Cheryl Baker will make a guest appearance in a special episode of EastEnders marking this year’s contest.
The 69-year-old singer shot to fame in 1981 when Bucks Fizz were crowned winners with Making Your Mind Up.
Cheryl, who was born in Bethnal Green, said: “I was so thrilled to be asked to take part in EastEnders. It’s a British institution!
“As a real-life EastEnder, I’ve loved the show since day one.”
Graham Norton, Alesha Dixon, Mel Giedroyc, Hannah Waddingham and Julia Sanina, who will front BBC coverage of the final on May 13, appeared at the official launch last night in Liverpool – which is hosting on behalf of last year’s winner, Ukraine.
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The presenting line-up for this year's Eurovision (BBC/Ray Burmiston)Ted Lasso star Hannah, 48, said she was inspired to get involved by what Ukraine has endured since Russia invaded. She said: “The thought of people voting from bomb shelters hits me more than anything. You’ve got to remember all the warmth, love and joy that comes with Eurovision.”
Ukrainian singer Julia, 23, said Eurovision was huge in her country, adding: “I’m sure Liverpool can rule the party. Kyiv is still very unsafe. We are very grateful that the UK is hosting instead.”
Singer Alesha, 44, said she was fizzing with excitement, stressing: “This is so much more than just a competition.”
Graham, 60, who will commentate on TV as well as hitting the stage, admitted he had no idea how it was going to work.
“This is Eurovision,” he laughed. “I’ve no idea what it’s going to be like.”
Mel, 54, who will share the commentary duties, said he would need an electric scooter to get around the M&S Bank Arena, explaining: “It’s quite a distance.”
And she said the role made her feel teary, adding: “This is the pinnacle of everything I’ve ever done.”
Scott Mills and Rylan Clark will replace Ken Bruce as presenters on Radio 2. Ken left the BBC last month.