Most important information about who will follow up Lordi as the Finnish act on home stage will be revealed at a press conference organised by YLE in Helsinki at 13.00 (EET) on November the 8th. At least HIM, Lordi and popular Idols runner-up Antti Tuisku have already publicly announced that they are not in the running for the Finnish national final.
Previously the broadcaster has told us, that the 4 semi-finals and the final in Turku will be hosted by the already familiar couple, Jaana Pelkonen and Heikki Paasonen. Mr. Paasonen says in the Finnish press he had to choose between hosting again the Finnish edition of Idols next spring, or Eurovision. His choice of Eurovision whipped up rumours, that the couple might also host the actual international semi-final and final at Hartwall Arena in May. The couple also won a recent fan vote on Viisukuppila website as the favourites to host Eurovision Song Contest in May.
It has also been announced, that a controversial Finnish comedian Simo Frangén will be a news reader in all the Finnish national finals shows. His unique style of comedy and innuendo was first seen in Eurovision connection when he co-hosted the Finnish final in 2002 with Maria Guzenina. His persona continues to divide the Finnish fans with many despairing at his comic style while others think he will bring a much needed comedy element to the national selection.
He is a member of the popular group Alivaltiosihteeri, who describe their style as” guitar rock with stinging, humorous lyrics” They also had a comedy show on YLE radio channels and specialised in anagrams and palindromes that have become modern folklore in Finland.
Pics: YLE