Graham Norton paid a touching tribute to his Eurovision song contest commentary predecessor, the late Sir Terry Wogan. The chat show host took over the role from Sir Terry in 2008, who had previously been the BBC's commentator for the show for over thirty years.
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Paying a touching tribute to the late TV and radio presenter, Graham took the opportunity to say a few words about Sir Terry while commentating on Saturday night. He said: "Eight years ago, when I was lucky enough to get this job of commentating, Sir Terry very kindly and graciously phoned me, and the only bit of advice he had for me was 'Don't have a drink before song nine'.
© Photo: Getty ImagesGraham paid tribute to the late Sir Terry Wogan
"So while the crowd here in the Globe Arena cheer on their home boy, I would urge you back in the UK at home to raise a cup, a mug, a glass, whatever you have in front of you, and give thanks for the man who was, and always will be, the voice of Eurovision, Sir Terry Wogan. Sir Terry, this is song nine."
Celebrities and fans alike praised Graham for his touching tribute, with Phillip Schofield tweeting a photo of his glass of wine, writing: "That was lovely @grahnort.. Raising my glass to Sir Terry Wogan #RaiseYourGlass", while Clare Balding wrote: "It's Song 9. We raise a glass to Sir Terry Wogan on #BBCEurovision. Beautifully done @grahnort".
The legendary presenter passed away in January after a short battle with cancer. His family announced the news, releasing a statement which read: "Sir Terry Wogan died today after a short but brave battle with cancer. He passed away surrounded by his family."
