AJ Odudu has bagged herself a new presenting gig. The Strictly Come Dancing star is set to appear at the forthcoming Eurovision Song Contest 2022 as she acts as the spokesperson for the UK jury.
The northern presenter, 34, is best known for fronting Big Brother’s Bit on the Side as well as for reaching the final of Strictly 2021. Along with professional partner Kai Widdrington, AJ managed to make it all the way to the grand final, only to have her hopes dashed by a serious ligament injury.
The official BBC Eurovision account confirmed the news on Friday (April 29). Sharing a photo of AJ alongside the Eurovision logo, they tweeted: “Ciao Italia, this is SALFORD calling! @AJOdudu will be the first #Eurovision spokesperson to present the UK jury’s douze points from the North West.”
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Last year’s UK results were read out by Britain’s Got Talent judge Amanda Holden. The TV personality was accused of ruining the UK’s chances at winning – although the votes had already been counted – with her opening joke.
Speaking on-screen to millions of viewers across Europe, Amanda memorably opened: “Bon soir. Goedenavond,” before adding: “That is good evening in French and Dutch although I’ve got absolutely no idea which is which.”
Last year’s Eurovision ended in disaster for the UK after James Newman became the only act of the night to receive zero points. This year, singer Sam Ryder, who boasts more than 12 million TikTok followers, is aiming to redeem the country.
The Eurovision Song Contest 2022 airs on May 14 on BBC One
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