December 19, 2023
Out Singer Ollie Alexander Headed to Eurovision 'in the Gayest Way Possible' in '24
Kilian Melloy READ TIME: 2 MIN.
Out Years & Years frontman and "It's a Sin" star Olly Alexander will be England's musical act in next year's Eurovision contest and he's planning on bringing the pride. Taking place in Malmö, Sweden in May, the 2024 edition will mark the long-running contest's 68th year.
The 33-year-old singer "reveal[ed] the news during the Grand Final of BBC One's Strictly Come Dancing on Saturday," Billboard Magazine reported.
Subsequent to the on-air announcement, Alexander issued a statement in which he spoke to his enthusiasm for the popular event, declaring he'd "fly the flag for the UK in the gayest way possible" – so, not just repping the Union Jack, but the Pride banner, too.
"I've loved watching Eurovision ever since I was a little kid and I'm beyond excited to be taking part next year," the out performer said, before adding that he "always looked forward to this incredible event of unbridled joy, the wonderfully chaotic mix of musical styles, theatrical performances, heartfelt emotion and humor."
Alexander continued, "I really can't believe I'm going to be a part of such a special legacy and fly the flag for the UK in the gayest way possible, it shall be an honor!"
Alexander tucked another bombshell into his Eurovision announcement, as well: The frontman having been the sole member of Years & Years for some time, he's going to step out from under the group's shadow.
"I've wanted to do this for a long time and it feels like the right moment to start releasing music under my own name," Alexander said. "I'm determined to give it everything I've got and put on an excellent and unforgettable performance for you all!"
Fans can look forward to an original release as the UK's entry into the contest. Billboard detailed that "Alexander's UK Eurovision song – written with Danny L. Harle (Dua Lipa's 'Houdini') – [will] be revealed soon."
Billboard noted that Alexander has "released three acclaimed albums under the name Years & Years (2015's 'Communion,' 2018's 'Palo Santo' and 2022's 'Night Call'), paring the project down to a solo act in March 2021 and releasing a sultry, acoustic cover of Lil Nas X's 'Montero (Call Me By Your Name)' in July 2022."
"Alexander was recently awarded the prestigious BRIT Billion Awards for crossing the 6.5 billion global streams mark."
Kilian Melloy serves as EDGE Media Network's Associate Arts Editor and Staff Contributor. His professional memberships include the National Lesbian & Gay Journalists Association, the Boston Online Film Critics Association, The Gay and Lesbian Entertainment Critics Association, and the Boston Theater Critics Association's Elliot Norton Awards Committee.
