Graham Norton Defends Terry Wogan After Eurovision Producer Accuses Late TV Presenter Of ‘Spoiling’ The Contest

Graham Norton has jumped to Terry Wogan’s defence after a Eurovision Song Contest producer accused the late star of making a mockery of the annual musical competition.

Terry, who died in January at the age of 77, hosted the BBC’s Eurovision coverage from 1971 until 2008, when Graham took the reins.

But despite Terry’s kitsch style being a hit with viewers, he has been accused of “spoiling” the contest’s reputation by Swedish producer Christer Bjorkman.

When asked why Brits don’t take the competition seriously, he told the Mirror: "There are several reasons, one is Terry Wogan himself.

"He did this for 28 years and his commentary always forced the mockery side and there is a grown-up generation in Britain that doesn't know anything better."

He added: "He raised a generation of viewers believing this was a fun kitsch show that had no relevance whatsoever.

“It totally spoiled Eurovision. Because of what Terry Wogan did, the UK don't put in their best efforts. If I would have been in charge I would never have chosen him."

However, Graham says Terry will forever be connected to the Eurovision after making it his own.

Graham told the Mirror: “Sir Terry Wogan will always be associated with Eurovision.

"He took a role that wasn’t really a role at all and he totally transformed it into the job it is today.

“When I am doing the commentary I still hear Sir Terry in my head as I am sure lots of other people do too.

“I think this year will be bittersweet because we will all be thinking of Terry and I am sure I will say a few words about him as the night goes on as it is a night that will forever be associated with Terry Wogan.”

The 53-year-old chat show host added that he would be “raising a glass” to his predecessor during this year’s show.

He said: “For those who aren’t aware song number nine is famous because Sir Terry always warned me not to have anything to drink until that point.

“At song number nine this year the host country Sweden will be performing and I will be encouraging everyone to raise a glass.

“It has all worked out very nicely as Swedish people in the arena will be cheering their song in the stadium as everyone back in the UK will join me and cheers the memory and legacy of Sir Terry Wogan.”

This year the UK is represented by former ‘The Voice’ contestants Joe Woolford and Jake Shakeshaft with their song, ‘You're Not Alone’.

The final, which will be shown on BBC One, will be hosted by last year’s winners Sweden, from Stockholm's Ericsson Globe, on 14 May.