Why Eurovision 2023 should definitely win at the BAFTAS

On Wednesday, March 20, The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) unveiled the complete roster of nominees for both the 2024 BAFTA Television Awards and BAFTA Television Craft Awards.

Eurovision 2023 was undeniably a TV spectacle like no other, captivating audiences across the globe with its infectious energy and extraordinary performances… and not to mention, it was hosted in the best city in the world!

As the BAFTAS approach, it has been announced that the Eurovision Song Contest, held in Liverpool last year, has been nominated for four awards.

The nominations include:

BAFTA Television Awards

• Live Event Coverage
• Entertainment Performance (Hannah Waddingham)

BAFTA Television Craft Awards

• Entertainment Craft Team (Julio Himede, Tim Routledge, Kojo Samuel, Michael Sharp, Dan Shipton)
• Director: Multi Camera (Nikki Parsons, Ollie Bartlett, Richard Valentine)

Here’s why we think Eurovision 2023 deserves a clean sweep at the prestigious awards:

The hosts were incredible

The hosts of Eurovision 2023; Hannah Waddingham, Alesha Dixon, Graham Norton, and Julia Sanina, as well as Mel Giedroyc, Rylan, Scott Mills, Claire Sweeney, Sam Quek and Timur Miroshnychenko, were nothing short of incredible.

Their wit, charm, and impeccable timing kept viewers entertained throughout the show, adding an extra layer of magic to the already spectacular event.

Their ability to navigate the intricacies of hosting such a large-scale production was truly commendable and contributed significantly to the overall success of the show.

It united the UK and Europe in music

2023’s contest served as a powerful unifying force, both within the UK and across Europe.

Through the celebration of music, it brought people together, fostering a sense of community across borders.

In particular, the heartfelt embrace of Ukraine by us here in the city, and across the UK, showcased the power of music to bridge divides and promote an understanding of cultures.

It helped showcase Liverpool so well

We can’t overlook the role Eurovision played in showcasing our vibrant city of Liverpool to the world.

From its iconic landmarks, to its rich cultural heritage, Liverpool served as the perfect backdrop for this spectacular event.

That set at the arena was stunning!

The incredible set at the M&S Bank Arena provided a visually striking stage for the performances, further enhancing the city’s reputation as a global destination for world-class acts.

The stage covered 220 square metres of the venue, with its architecture taking inspiration from “a wide hug that enfolds the Liverpool Arena”, which gave the impression of “opening its arms to Ukraine, and the shows performers and guests from across the world”.

The structure was designed by Julio Himede from New York-based firm Yellow Studio, which has previously served as the design team behind the 2022 Grammy Awards ceremony and the 2021 MTV Video Music Awards.

Easily the best Eurovision set that has ever been made!

The live performances were superb – how can we ever forget the Liverpool Song Book?!

From winner Loreen writhing on the floor with nails that may have been an inch too long, to Cyprus’ Andrew Lambrou literally setting the stage ablaze – every performance wowed us!

But let’s be honest that the Liverpool medley in the final was nothing short of euphoric. It was a beautiful tribute to the host city, showcasing songs from Liverpool artists.

There wasn’t a dry eye at Liverpool’s Pier Head stage when You’ll Never Walk Alone began to play.

It was watched by millions across the world

Eurovision 2023 wasn’t just a national event but a global phenomenon, watched by millions across the world. Its reach and impact extended far beyond the borders of the UK, cementing its status as one of the most beloved and iconic television events of the year.

It left an incredible legacy on our city and the UK

We will never forget the Eurovision madness that descended on the city. It’s left an enduring legacy on both the city of Liverpool and the UK as a whole.

Its success has helped to elevate Liverpool’s profile further as a cultural destination, attracting visitors and investment to the city.

This year, Liverpool is set to host even more Song Contest fun with ‘Liverpool Loves Eurovision’. It will be a city-wide campaign to help cement the city’s position as the UK’s Capital of Eurovision.

A number of major events are planned, with an open invitation to fans from across the UK and Europe who can’t get to Sweden, to party in style in Liverpool instead.

Liverpool Loves Eurovision will be the UK’s biggest Grand Final screening party.

Held on the site of Liverpool’s M&S Bank Arena – the home of the 2023 final. This event will be chocka full of epic live performances and Eurovision surprises before the Grand Final is shown live from Malmö.

More details on the event and tickets will be released next week, but you can register to hear about tickets first here.

For more Eurovision news click here.