Meet Freya: UK’s Shining Star for Junior Eurovision 2022
Freya’s journey to stardom began at just five years old when she received a karaoke machine. Now, this Buckinghamshire youngster is set to represent the UK at Junior Eurovision in Armenia with a banging debut single and a voice to die for.
Lockdown Lift-Off: From Bedroom Singer to National Star
During lockdown, Freya didn’t just binge-watch movies; she unleashed her inner singer-songwriter. She released her debut single and even landed a spot on BBC Introducing with her track I 1 The Way. When she’s not belting out tunes, she’s cozying up with her dog Ruby, teaching herself piano, or cheering on Tottenham Hotspur.
Surprise Audition Turns Dream Come True
Freya’s parents told her she had one last audition. Little did she know, West End star and former UK Eurovision rep Lucie Jones was about to break the news: Freya had been chosen to fly the flag in Armenia.
“I couldn’t believe it when I found out. It still doesn’t feel real,” Freya said. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I’m going to give it my all to make the UK proud.”
BBC Backs Freya’s Big Moment
Freya’s unveiling was exclusive to BBC Breakfast, where she charmed hosts Naga Munchetty and Charlie Stayt. Selected by CBBC and BBC Studios from a pool of young talent, she will perform Lose My Head—a powerful anthem about friendship and moving on, penned by Jack Hawitt, Amber Van Day, and Deepend.
Patricia Hidalgo, Director of BBC Children’s, praised Freya as “an amazing talent” with an “incredible voice” and a perfect ambassador for Team UK.
Junior Eurovision Goes Prime Time on BBC
This December 11, the Junior Eurovision Song Contest hits BBC One, CBBC, and BBC iPlayer for the very first time. Kids aged 9 to 14 will face off in Yerevan, Armenia, following last year’s win by Maléna with Qami Qami.
Suzy Lamb, MD of Entertainment & Music at BBC Studios, said: “Freya’s star quality lights up the room. Coupled with our killer pop anthem, we’re buzzing for the contest!”
Who wins? A mix of national juries and global online votes decide the victor. Keep tabs at junioreurovision.tv and follow @CBBC for all the latest UK updates!