Artist Green Rooms

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Lore & Background

The 2013 edition marked a return to a single-host format for the main stage, with Petra Mede carrying the entire presentation load. This shift created a unique dynamic for the backstage area, necessitating a dedicated host to manage the artist experience. Eric Saade, who had competed in 2011, was selected to lead this segment during the final on 18 May. His role involved interacting directly with performers as they waited or watched from the green room, providing a personal connection that complemented Mede's main stage hosting. This setup highlighted the intimacy of Malmö Arena, where the proximity of fans and artists was a central theme, echoing the event's design to be 'smaller, closer and personal.'

In Their Own Story

On the night of the final, while Petra Mede captivated the audience in the auditorium, Eric Saade took his place as the green room host. The atmosphere backstage was distinct from the grandeur of the main stage; it was a space where the tension of 39 participating countries converged. Saade, familiar with the pressure of representing Sweden from his own performance in 2011, navigated this environment to support artists like Emmelie de Forest and others. The green room served as a critical holding area where the reality of the contest played out away from the cameras, with Saade ensuring that the flow of information remained smooth despite the high stakes. This arrangement allowed the audience at home to see the raw reactions of the competitors before their scores were announced.

Reader's Guide

For the Eurovision Song Contest 2013, the green room functioned as a dedicated viewing and interaction zone for artists during the final. Hosted by Eric Saade, this area provided a direct line of communication between the performers and the broadcast audience. Unlike previous years with multiple presenters, the single-host format on stage meant the green room host played a pivotal role in maintaining engagement. Artists gathered here to watch their own performances and those of their rivals, reacting in real-time as votes were tallied. The space was essential for managing the emotional arc of the night, culminating in the announcement that 'Only Teardrops' by Denmark had won with the highest average score in both televote and jury vote.

Did You Know?

• Eurovision 2013 was the first time since 1995 that only one person presented the show.
• Eric Saade, who hosted the green room in the final, had previously represented Sweden in 2011.
• Denmark won with 'Only Teardrops', achieving the highest average score in both the televote and jury vote.
• Bosnia and Herzegovina, Portugal, Slovakia, and Turkey all ceased participation in 2013 for various reasons.
• The 2013 contest reintroduced the 'Parade of Nations' concept, where artists entered via a bridge over the audience.