Mika is to host Eurovision 2022.
The 38-year-old singer - whose real name is Michael Holbrook Penniman Jr - will front the 66th multinational singing competition alongside TV personality Alessandro Cattelan and Laura Pausini, which is set to take place on May 14th in Italy on following the country's victory at the 2021 contest.
Mika said: "I’ve been watching it since I was a kid, the whole family would get together for the Grand Final. Once a year, more than 40 countries share the same emotions, regardless of history or the political situation: music unites them. It’s an exciting honour to be one of the masters of ceremony on these fantastic nights."
The 'Grace Kelly' hitmaker went on to explain that he "believes in the importance of an international community" and claimed that Eurovision allows us to "celebrate our similarities as much as our differences."
Speaking to Eurovision.tv, he explained. "'More than ever I believe in the importance of an international community, in our common values. I believe in the union of people, in breaking down the walls to celebrate our similarities as much as our differences. We can do it thanks to music, which is the most universal form of expression. Eurovision is this and so much more!"
His co-host Laura - who has released 13 studio albums during her career and has also served as a judge on the Italian version of 'The X Factor' is "happy" that the contest has returned to her home country.
She said: "I am happy that Eurovision is finally back in Italy and honoured to lead such an important event, together with my friends Mika and Ale! Together we want to show Europe and the world our extraordinary country. For me, 2022 has started with new music and this fantastic appointment. I want to face Eurovision, a musical event par excellence in Europe and one of the most important television shows in the world, with the same energy that has accompanied me throughout my career. We are ready … and, indeed, we can’t wait!"
