Alright, some sincere words from the man behind the curtain.
This has been a thrill! I've hosted four times before, but the last time was over 8 years ago, and you'll have to go back even further to the wild year of 2011 when I got to host twice. Back then I was a college student with free time to spare, and I was capable of pulling all-nighters without getting migraines as a result. At age 32 with a full-time shift job and my skills being a bit rusty, as well as simultaneously planning my own wedding this summer, host duty was obviously gonna be more of a challenge, but I was ready to take it on, and me being me I wasn't about to do anything lesser than what I had managed in the past!
After Roffbeard's victory, hosting in-character was the obvious way to go. At first I was a bit worried that this would be severely limiting in how I approached the theme or that I would end up doing the character a disservice, either washing him down too much or overusing him to the point of beating a dead horse. But pretty soon the pieces fell into place and I have to say I'm very satisfied with how everything turned out! I might just have to compile a list of all the references, hints, inspirations and my own thought processes if I find the time for it.
I've seen all your kind words of encouragement, and it means so so much!
I'm very glad that I was able to make you enjoy your stay
in Ugaly on the island of Roffbeard!
The results were also a thrill to follow in real time! I definitely feel bad for Griffin Empire, it looked like they had it in the bag until the very last few votes came in, particularly in the Waiting List Jury which ended up being a highly deciding factor. Goes to show that every point matters!
But a worthy winner indeed in Sundfør! A touching song with a very important message in the dreadful times of today's reality. I proudly hand over the trophy to this entry, more than just a winning song but also a clear statement that we stand with Ukraine!
Thank you everyone for this amazing time! Looking forward to seeing what our northern neighbours have in store for NSC 205, I'm sure it'll be just as amazing!
