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Sam Volpe

Eurovision legend Graham Norton's 'remain sober' advice for getting through epic song contest nights

Graham Norton made a cheeky appearance midway through the second Eurovision semi-final, and said "remaining sober" was his best advice for commentating on the song contest.

Speaking to host Hannah Waddingham - who he will join to helm the grand final - with his Ukrainian counterpart Timur Miroshnychenko, Graham was asked how to add a bit of "oomph" to Eurovision commentary. With a wry smile he laughted: "Remain sober, that's always good."

But standing next to him, Timur jumped in: "Only until the final."

Read more: Hannah Waddingham pokes fun at Amanda Holden in Eurovision put down

The pair have known each other a number of years, having worked on the Eurovision Song Contest for a combined 30 years. They were shown a picture of themselves in their younger days - and again Graham couldn't resist a self-deprecating joke.

Actor Hannah introduced the photo, which appeared on screen. She said: "Between you we have worked out you have over 30 years of commentary expertise. And we have a photo - check it out..."

In response, Graham looked at Timur and said: "It feels like my moisturiser isn't as good as I thought it was!"

Hannah, who has previously starred in Game of Thrones and was co-hosting the semi-final along with Alesha Dixon and Julia Sanina, asked about the atmosphere in the commentary boxes. Timur, who said his favourite acts included Maneskin and Conchita Wurst, said: "It's party all night long in my place" But Graham said it was dull in his commentary box. In mock exasperation, he said: "It's quiet in my place!"

The Eurovision second semi-final features 16 more acts, with only ten making it through to the final. There on Saturday they will face off against holders Ukraine, the "big five" nations, and ten qualifiers from the first semi earlier this week.

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