The UK has narrowly lost out in the Eurovision song contest this evening. Sam Ryder took to the stage with an upbeat performance of his uplifting pop song Space Man.
The 32-year-old Tik Tok star was one of 25 acts vying for the top prize during the climax of the week-long contest in Turin, Italy. And after the jury results, his act was leading the way with 283 points, 25 ahead of nearest rivals Sweden and grabbing a host of 12 points from across Europe. But Ukraine won a massive 439 points in the public vote and 631 points overall to claim the title.
The UK came second with 466 points, with Spain finishing on 459 and Sweden on 438.
READ MORE: Eurovision 2022 results in full
The Ukrainian act was the favourite to win, having been frontrunners since Russia’s invasion – which prompted organisers to ban the country. The group was dressed in elaborate outfits, including long multi-coloured fringed ensembles, a pink bucket hat and others in traditional patterns.
Their performance, which combined rap and Ukrainian folklore, went down well with the audience who cheered the group on with many waving Ukrainian flags.
Commentator Graham Norton said: “We weren’t sure they were going to make it but they have made it. Their commentator did not make it, he is commentating from a bomb shelter.”
Ryder was the 22nd act to perform, playing a guitar mid-show in front of a crowd of 7,000 fans at the Pala Olympica arena who sang along. He took to the stage in a dazzling one piece encrusted with planets, moons and stars made of beads and pearls.
Concluding his set, the singer said: “Shine brightly my friends. Thank you all.”
Graham Norton, who once again anchored the contest on BBC One, said: “What a powerhouse performance. You can’t ask for much more than that. There is a sea of Union Jack flags.”
His electric song had UK fans daring to dream, with a number of supportive posts after he had performed.
@Jeffreyemiles wrote: "If Sam Ryder doesn't help the UK get into the Top 10 at least, nothing will. It's a genuinely good song and he nailed those high notes". @mikekeenan asked: " This is legitimately bloody brilliant isn’t it? Get in there Sam!"
@MittenDAmour commented: "This is legit one of the best of the night. I’m close to daring to hope we get top 10."@rycbar32_ said: "Sam Ryder was fantastic #Eurovision." And @Callum_Stott praised: "Sam Ryder totally nailed that and then some."
@Sportywagon applauded: "What a voice, what a song, what a performance. Best we've had for 20 years." And @Geniee said: "What an amazing performance."
