'Spectacular' - France Télévisions and EBU talk Junior Eurovision

📺 Watch: France Télévisions & EBU Press Conference

Delphine Ernotte, the president of both France Télévisions and the EBU, opened the briefing with a video message:

‘We are very proud to host the 19th edition of the Junior Eurovision Song Contest – both Junior and the Eurovision Song Contest are historical brands for France Télévisions. The shows are unique.

[Junior Eurovision] constitutes a wonderful occasion to promote cultural exchanges between Europe and Central Asia; [France Télévisions and the delegations] collaborated in a real spirit of public service with the great support and precious advice of the EBU.’

In attendance at the press conference in La Seine Musicale was Junior Eurovision Executive Supervisor Martin Österdahl, who was full of praise for the participating talent:

‘During this past week of rehearsals, we have been amazed by the talent that is on display in this year’s contest. From as far away as Kazakhstan and from neighbouring countries like Spain, the young performers have taken the stage in La Seine Musicale with that vibrant energy and special light in their eyes which is unique for kids.’

‘There is no doubt what this means to them. To be on a professional stage, performing to an international audience. To represent their home country while also belonging together with boys and girls from other countries. This is not just another show. It’s a dream come true.’

‘Commenting on the continued success of the Junior brand, he also said that Paris 2021 could possibly turn out to be the most spectacular edition yet.’

Director of Channels and Programmes, Stéphane Sitbon-Gomez, thanked the EBU, saying that it was a long journey to get to Paris, but France Télévisions has learned a lot and they have a show that they’re very proud of.

‘I want to thank Valentina, Barbara (Pravi) and the French Delegation for all their hard work in winning the Junior competition. Our boss gave us the mandate of winning Eurovision, and we’re very proud of winning Junior Eurovision… this is the first step, as next we’d like to win the Eurovision Song Contest and see you back in Paris soon.’

Stéphane later described the Eurovision Song Contest as the ‘Superbowl of Europe’ – in that every broadcaster wants the honour of hosting the show.

The person behind Sunday’s extravaganza is none other than Alexandra Redde Amiel, the French Head of Delegation and Executive Producer of Junior Eurovision 2021:

‘Spectacular. Amazing. Incredible. Unique. Challenging. I try to sum up Junior Eurovision in one word, but it’s impossible. ‘Imagine’ is our slogan, and ‘Imagine’ has allowed us to dream.

On Sunday, that dream will start.’

Of course, it’s worth remembering that next year we will celebrate the 20th anniversary edition of the Junior Eurovision Song Contest.

When asked if the EBU was planning something amazing to mark two decades of Junior Eurovision in 2022, Martin Österdahl replied:

‘You don’t spoil birthday surprises… wait and see.’

The full press conference is available to watch on the official Junior Song Contest YouTube channel.

Make sure to follow the official Junior Eurovision Twitter, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook channels for exclusive behind-the-scenes content from Paris.