Sir Terry Wogan passed away in 2016
Graham Norton took over the reigns as Eurovision commentator from Sir Terry Wogan following his passing in 2016.
And ever since then, Graham has carried on with a sweet tradition of encouraging viewers to raise a glass in the veteran broadcaster’s honour at song nine, and Saturday night was no different.
As Sweden took to the Eurovision stage in Tel Aviv, Graham said: “Next up is song nine, and this is the moment where every year I will ask you to reach forward and grab whatever beverage is in front of you.
"Be it a mug, a goblet, a cup, a glass, or flute, raise it and toast the memory of the man who was and always will be the voice of Eurovision... the late great, Sir Terry Wogan."
Viewers were delighted that Graham is sticking with the tradition, with one writing: “The legend. 🍷 Could only ever have been replaced by Graham Norton. To Graham too! 🍷 #Eurovision.”
Another said: “He would be very happy that @ grahnort is carrying on the flag @ bbceurovision"
BBC One also tweeted a special tribute to Sir Terry with one of his sarcastic quotes, which read: "Who knows what hellish future lies ahead? I do. I've seen the rehearsals."
They accompanied the tweet with the caption: “Let's all raise a toast to Sir Terry. ❤️”
Graham has explained in the past why he waits until song nine to toast Sir Terry after he took over commenting on the song contest from him.
He said: "[Then] Eight years ago when I first started presenting Eurovision he kindly and very graciously phoned me and said 'Don't ever have a drink before song nine…'"
Meanwhile, it was a sad night for Great Britain at the Eurovision Song Contest. UK hopeful Michael Rice came in last place with just 16 points. The Netherlands were crowned the winner.
