‘God, that was awkward!’ Eurovision’s Graham Norton doesn’t hide his feelings after enduring laborious and stunted chat with Netherlands host
It may not have been business as usual for Eurovision 2020, but Graham Norton was still sure to keep viewers entertained with his injection of sardonic wit.
The Irish presenter, 57, was on duty to front Come Together – a tribute show aired in place of the usual contest, which has been axed this year due to the global health crisis.
And as would-be hosts The Netherlands led proceedings, Graham was sure to keep up his satirical commentary throughout – including after her spoke to directly to the foreign host, live on air.
Awks: It may not have been business as usual for Eurovision 2020, but Graham Norton was still sure to keep viewers entertained with his injection of sardonic wit on Saturday night
Graham was narrating the show – which crowned ABBA’s breakthrough hit Waterloo the world’s favourite Eurovision entry from across its 64-year history – but was seen on screen chatting to one of the Dutch stars.
Sound delays and language barriers were sure to make this a suitably awkward exchange, after which Graham was heard blurting out: ‘God, that was awkward!’
‘I’m sure you will keep a close eye on us, won’t you?’ the female Dutch host said to Graham, to which he replied: ‘I will of course. And thank you again, for tonight.’
‘Graham Norton commentating immediately after his own interview: “God that was awkward” What an absolute GEM he is!’ one fan gushed on Twitter following this.
Delayed reaction: As would-be hosts The Netherlands led proceedings, Graham was sure to keep up his satirical commentary throughout – including after he spoke to directly to the foreign host, live on air
Telling it like it is: Sound delays and language barriers were sure to make this a suitably awkward exchange, after which Graham was heard blurting out – ‘God, that was awkward!’
‘Graham Norton telling the UK how awkward his interview was like we’re one of his mates is why he’ll always be a National Treasure!’ another agreed, followed by a third: ‘One of my favourite TV moments this year so far. Graham Norton: “God that was awkward.”’
Another penned: ‘Graham Norton to Eurovision: It’s been lovely and I’ve felt emotional watching. Graham Norton back to the UK: God that was awkward. Our hero!’
Television viewers chose ABBA’s iconic hit over 18 other entries featured in Eurovision: Come Together.
ABBA won the 1974 contest with the song, although the UK jury famously failed to vote for it.
Out on top! ABBA won the 1974 contest with the song Waterloo, although the UK jury famously failed to vote for it
There were four UK entries on the shortlist which spanned the entire 64-year history of the event.
They included the winning songs Making Your Mind Up, which was performed by Bucks Fizz in 1981, and the 1976 entry Save Your Kisses For Me by Brotherhood Of Man.
A second programme called Eurovision: Europe Shine A Light was broadcast from Rotterdam and included pre-recorded excerpts of all 41 entries including the UK song My Last Breath, which was performed by singer-songwriter James Newman.
The 34-year-old, who has recently recovered from COVID-19 symptoms, watched with his wife from their London home.
Later in the evening, all the acts performed a special rendition of the UK’s 1997 Eurovision winning song Love Shine A Light, by Katrina And The Waves.