Following the news Eurovison 2020 would not be going ahead, shattering dreams and costume plans around the world, James Newman has broken his silence on the heartbreaking development amid the coronavirus pandemic.
This year’s edition of the global spectacle was due to take place in May, with the semi-finals occuring on 12 and 14 May and the grand final on 16 May in Rotterdam, and James was set to represent the United Kingdom this year with his song My Last Breath.
It was decided that the singer-songwriter, who is the brother of Love Me Again John Newman, would represent the UK by the BBC and BMG, as the usual public vote was scrapped.
However, pretty heartbreakingly, that’s not going to happen this year.
In a statement on Twitter on Wednesday afternoon, hours after the news emerged, James shared that while he was gutted to not be heading overseas for the annual song competition, he stood by the decision.
He wrote tonight: ‘I’m of course absolutely gutted to not be going to Rotterdam this year for Eurovision but I completely stand by [European Broadcasting Union] EBU’s decision as it’s more important for everyone to remain safe during these unprecedented times – artists, delegations and fans alike.’
He continued: ‘Thank you to everyone for all of your support so far and for all your kind messages.’
Joining so many other stars who are indoors due to social isolation, James added he’d be doing some gigs on Instagram Live.
So, you know, not all is lost.
When it comes to Eurovision, he continued: ‘As soon as I know more on the situation, so will you!
‘Stay safe everyone.’
Announcing the news today, A statement from the EBU read: ’It is with deep regret that we have to announce the cancellation of the Eurovision Song Contest 2020 in Rotterdam.
‘Over the past few weeks we have explored many alternative options to allow the Eurovision Song Contest to go ahead.
‘However, the uncertainty created by the spread of Covid-19 throughout Europe – and the restrictions put in place by the governments of the participating broadcasters and the Dutch authorities – means the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has taken the difficult decision that it is impossible to continue with the live event as planned.
‘The EBU, NPO, NOS, AVROTROS and the City of Rotterdam will continue a conversation regarding the hosting of the Eurovision Song Contest in 2021.
‘We would ask people to bear with us while we work through the ramifications of this unprecedented decision and patiently await any further news in the coming days and weeks.
‘We would like to pay tribute to all the host broadcaster team in the Netherlands and our 41 members who have worked so hard on planning this year’s event.
‘We are all as heartbroken as they are that the Eurovision Song Contest will not be able to be staged in May and know that the whole Eurovision family, across the world, will continue to provide love and support for each other at this difficult time.’
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