Graham Norton gives his Eurovision predictions: Sam Ryder is 'best hope for years'

Eurovision Song Contest UK host Graham Norton has given his predictions for this year's results - and reckons Sam Ryder is our best chance in years.

The grand final of the music contest airs this weekend from Turin, Italy with chat show host and comedian Norton providing the commentary for the UK broadcast as usual.

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He is used to getting to know each of Eurovision's songs inside out, as well as the voting process, and has shared his thoughts on how the UK's act Ryder will do as well as who will win.

Norton said: "Sam Ryder is a star! I honestly think he is our best hope for years.

"He has been getting a great response around Europe as he promotes Spaceman, so fingers crossed for some points this year!"

Last year's UK representative James Newman received the dreaded nil points, but this year's act Ryder was chosen after enjoying huge success globally on TikTok over lockdown.

However, while Norton believes Ryder will do well, he doesn't quite have him pegged as the winner.

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The presenter said: "I really think Italy might do that rarest of things and walk away triumphant for the second year in a row. That song is huge!"

Norton added that he felt increasingly emotional about Eurovision in recent years after 2020's contest was cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic, and this year is expected to see an emotional performance from the Ukraine act with Russia banned from competing.

He said: "I've always loved Eurovision but somehow over the last few years it has become even more special.

"I find the idea of fans and families coming together during dark times to celebrate music across the continent extremely moving."

The Eurovision Song Contest grand final airs from 8pm on Saturday on BBC One.

Watch: Sam Ryder discusses his TikTok fame