Yahoo News Olly Alexander's Eurovision hopes suffer major blow just days before contest
Olly Alexander has been hit with a major setback to his Eurovision Song Contest chances just days before the competition begins,
The 33-year-old, who grew up in Blackpool, has seen his odds of winning take a significant tumble. The excitement was palpable when the Years and years star announced during last year's Strictly final that he would be representing the UK at Eurovision in Malmo.
It was a revelation that took viewers by surprise given the BBC's tradition of unveiling the artist only a few months prior to the event. Following his announcement, Olly hinted at having a 'banger' ready for the contest, with his entry Dizzy released on March 1 and quickly climbing the UK iTunes charts.
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Despite performing the track at Eurovision preview parties across Europe and in London, and receiving positive feedback from fans, the song's odds have slipped. While other countries like Ireland and the Netherlands have seen their betting odds improve, Olly's have declined, with Betway now offering 40/1 odds on him winning.
Currently leading the odds is Switzerland's Nemo with The Code at 2/1, followed by Croatian entry Rim Tom Tagi Dim by Baby Lasagna at 3/1, with the Netherlands in third place.
Assessing Olly's chances and other contenders, Betway spokesperson Chad Yeomans said: "The UK is hoping to improve on its performance last year, when Mae Muller fell down the rankings to come second last - however Olly Alexander already has huge star power, so it's not out of the question for him to join the likes of Sam Ryder who shot to fame after coming second in 2022."
"Eurovision is loved by over 200 million people across the world - as people come together to celebrate pop music and embrace culture, diversity, incredible music and stunning fashion. But the best thing about Eurovision is that we never know what we're going to get - the whole contest is full of surprises, which Olly Alexander will be hoping to achieve - for all the right reasons on the big night!"
Last month, Blackpool Pleasure Beach Resort announced it is bringing a live Eurovision fan zone to the town where Olly spent his childhood years. Olly lived behind the amusement park and visited most days.
Amanda Thompson OBE, CEO of Pleasure Beach Resort, said: "We’ve watched Olly grow up here, and we are so proud and excited to see him represent our country in one of the biggest events in the music and television calendar. After an incredible UK Eurovision last year, we can’t wait to bring the hype back home, and show Olly some love from where it all began.
"Guests can cheer on their favourite country as we light up our Paradise Room with singing, sequins and outrageous entertainment."
Tickets are priced at £20 per person and can be purchased here.
