Petra Mede, a name familiar to Eurovision fans, is preparing to take to the Eurovision stage for the third time as co-host with Malin Åkerman . But who is this woman of undeniable talent and sharp humour who has captured the hearts of Eurofans? Between two rehearsal sessions with her co-host Malin Åkerman, currently in Los Angeles, she opens up in an inspiring and touching interview with Wiwibloggs.
A sharp sense of humour and an engaging personality
Born in Sweden in 1970, Petra Mede initially set her sights on a career as a ballet dancer. But a back injury shattered her dreams, forcing her to retrain. It was then that she turned to theatre and comedy, revealing a definite talent for humour and entertainment.
Petra Mede quickly made a name for herself with her piquant humour, sense of self-mockery and ability to improvise. She made a string of appearances on Swedish television, becoming a key figure in the national media landscape.
Two iconic Eurovision appearances
In 2013, Petra Mede was chosen to host Eurovision in her home town of Malmö. Her success was immediate. Her quirky sense of humour and boundless energy make her the ideal host for this international contest.
Buoyed by her success, Petra Mede was asked to host Eurovision again in 2016, this time alongside Måns Zelmerlöw, the winner of the 2015 edition. The duo put on a memorable show, combining humour, emotion and spectacle.
On the programme: a colourful opening number entitled "On ADORE trop l'Eurovision ». It's a deliberate reference to the Swedes' unbridled passion for the contest, and an opportunity for Petra to make us laugh with her sharp sense of humour and self-mockery.
" Every Eurovision is unique" she confides, " but I can tell you that there will be a special number. I'll be singing and dancing a bit. The theme, as you might have guessed, is that we Swedes are just too in love with Eurovision and we apologise for winning all the time. But we still want to come across as modest people. No matter how proud we are, we love winning, of course."
But what makes Petra Mede such a Eurovision icon?
Beyond her undeniable talent, Petra Mede embodies the very spirit of Eurovision: festive, inclusive and open to all. Her humour, though sometimes piquant, is always marked by kindness and self-mockery (a lot of it!). She knows how to put artists and participants at ease, creating a warm and friendly atmosphere.
Petra Mede is a true ambassador for Eurovision. Her presence on stage is a guarantee of entertainment and good humour, which is why she has become an icon in the eyes of fans the world over.
Watch the full interview on Wiwibloggs.
