It has been over a week since the alternative programming to the 2020 Eurovision Song Contest; Eurovision: Europe Shine A Light. The EBU has now confirmed that the program has managed to attract over 70 million viewers.
’73 Million Viewers over 38 Markets’
The alternative programming; which was offered after the cancellation of the Eurovision Song Contest was aired in over 45 countries; as well as online via Youtube. The following countries, had the highest audiences during its airing:
- Italy – 3.00 Million – Various channels on Rai
- The Netherlands – 2.4 Million – NPO
- United Kingdom – 2.4 Million – BBC One
- Russia – 2.1 Million – Channel One
It’s also revealed that the alternative programming was a success; with younger viewers aged 15-24 making up 20% of those watching the program.
The EBU Director General, Noel Curran had the following to say in regards to the alternative programming.
I really want to congratulate the whole team at NPO, NOS and AVROTROS who produced an incredibly creative and very emotional show under challenging circumstances.
I’m proud that with Europe Shine A Light we united a continent in true Eurovision spirit. These fantastic figures really highlight the power of public service media to bring audiences together, not just in their own countries but across the world too
Noel Curran (EBU Director General) on Eurovision: Europe Shine a Light
With this in mind; outgoing Executive Supervisor to the EBU Jon Ola Sand, had the following to say about Eurovision: Europe Shine A Light:
Even in the absence of a Song Contest, our show this year proves that the light that Eurovision shines into millions of hearts remains undimmed.
I’d like to thank the incredible team in the Netherlands for all their hard work and our digital team who also worked intensively to provide new, original content which engaged millions online as well.
The past 10 years have been amazing and I will always be a proud part of the Eurovision family.
I wish everyone, and in particular my successor Martin Österdahl, all the very best as they begin preparations for the return of the Eurovision Song Contest next year
Jon Ola Sand (Executive Supervisor (2011-2020) on Eurovision: Europe Shine A Light
Alternative offering statistics revealed
In addition to Eurovision: Europe Shine A Light, the 2020 contest was also honoured through Eurovision Song Celebration, as well as having interviews with some of the 2020 contestants through Eurovisioncalls with Nikkietutorials and the Eurovision Home Concerts.
Having these alternative offerings available on the official Eurovision Song Contest Youtube channel managed to attract over 53 million unique viewers between March and May.
As we move forward, we now know that the 2021 Eurovision Song Contest will be taking place in Rotterdam, with the official dates being announced at a later date.
We would like to congratulate the EBU, NPO, NOS & AVROTROS on the success of Eurovision: Europe Shine A Light. We are looking forward at heading to the 2021 Eurovision Song Contest in Rotterdam.
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