Today the broadcaster responsible for the Norwegian representative in the Eurovision Song Contest NRK has announced that long running National Final – Melodi Grand Prix will be their selection method for 2021.
This however comes at a cost. The artist that would have represented them in 2020, Ulrikke, will play no part in proceedings.
How will 2021 work?
Next year Melodi Grand Prix will work similar to the process that took place in 2020. There will be a number of Semi-Finals and a Grand Final. Ulrikke was given the opportunity to compete as an automatic finalist. But whether there are going to be other automatic finalists is unknown at this point.
What have NRK said?
Christina Rezk Resar of NRK Underholdning had this to say about why NRK have decided to go in this path.
MGP has always been an important platform for Norwegian music. Due to the situation were in at the moment, it is important now more than ever to maintain this tradition and to showcase the breadth of Norwegian artists and newly written songs.
What Ulrikke had to say
Ulrikke, who was due to represent Norway with the song “Attention” took to instagram to issue a statement.
My dream is shattered. I then wanted to represent Norway in Eurovision. I fully understand that Eurovision 2020 has been canceled due to the corona virus, but I hoped for a long time that NRK would do as many other countries and support its artist by sending the artist to Eurovision in 2021 with a new song. So naturally I am very disappointed with NRK’s decision today to run an ordinary MGP season next year. It breaks my heart over the fans who have been absolutely fantastic supporters and extended family over the last few months, that we will not have the opportunity to experience ESC together. I want you guys to know that Christoffer and I have been fighting to the last minute to try to make this possible. This was our dream NRK has offered me to be a finalist in MGP 2021 now as it will be a regular MGP year. As of now I have declined no, but you should never say never. I do not want a final place on the grounds that I did not go to Eurovision this year, but because I might have had as good a song as “Attention” on the table right now. Now I want to focus on other exciting projects going forward. Lots of love for you all
What do you think? Do you agree with NRK or Ulrikke? Comment below or get in touch with us @escxtra on all social media platforms.
