Meet Freya: The UK’s Junior Eurovision Star
Freya’s singing journey started at just five, thanks to a karaoke machine gift. Fast forward to lockdown, she dropped her debut single and penned more tunes, including I Love The Way, which caught the attention of BBC Introducing. When she’s not making music, Freya enjoys cuddling her dog Ruby, teaching herself piano, watching movies, and cheering on Tottenham Hotspur.
Surprise Selection in London
The Buckinghamshire schoolgirl found out she’d be representing the UK in the Junior Eurovision Song Contest in classic showbiz style. Her parents whisked her off to a London theatre for “one last audition.” Instead, West End star and former UK Eurovision rep Lucie Jones revealed the big news—Freya had already been chosen to fly to Armenia. The teen was gobsmacked but thrilled.
“I couldn’t believe it when I found out. I wasn’t expecting it at all,” Freya said. “It still doesn’t feel real that I’m going to be representing the UK. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I’m going to give it my all to make the UK proud.”
Exclusive Reveal on BBC Breakfast
Freya made her big TV debut as the UK’s Junior Eurovision entry on BBC Breakfast with Naga Munchetty and Charlie Stayt. She was handpicked by CBBC and BBC Studios Entertainment and Music from a pool of young talents. Her song, Lose My Head, penned by Jack Hawitt, Amber Van Day and Deepend, packs a punch about friendship, moving on, and leaving the past behind.
Patricia Hidalgo, Director of BBC Children’s and Education, said: “Freya’s voice is incredible and she immediately stood out. She’s a very special, humble young lady who will be a fantastic ambassador for the UK.”
Junior Eurovision Hits BBC screens for the First Time
This year, the Junior Eurovision Song Contest lands on the BBC for the first time ever. The contest—open to kids aged 9 to 14—takes place on Sunday, 11 December 2022, in Yerevan, Armenia, following last year’s win by Maléna with Qami Qami. Fans can catch the live show on BBC One, CBBC, and BBC iPlayer.
Suzy Lamb, MD of Entertainment & Music at BBC Studios, gushed: “From her first audition, Freya lit up the room with star quality. Coupled with an incredible pop track, Lose My Head, we’re thrilled for December’s contest!”
The winner will be decided by votes from national juries and global online audiences. For updates, head to junioreurovision.tv.
Stay tuned for all the latest on the UK’s Junior Eurovision journey by following CBBC on Instagram, TikTok and Twitter.
