Christer Björkman has questioned the use of nudity by some of this year’s Eurovision acts, saying performances “feel speculative”. 

The returning Contest Producer was speaking to The Euro Trip at the end of the first week of rehearsals which has seen all 37 acts perform on the Eurovision stage for the first time. 

Click to read this story at a glance…

• Christer Björkman suggests that some Eurovision acts use nudity artistically, but others may feel speculative or questionable in their approach
• He highlights Slovenia and the UK as examples where nudity or implied nudity fits well within the artistic concept of their performances
• Björkman mentions that broadcasters have autonomy in deciding whether to blur or censor performances for their respective audiences, with the BBC known for its sensitivity towards this issue

“You get a lot of skin for your money,” Björkman said. 

Asked if nudity or implied nudity is suitable for a Eurovision audience, Björkman said: “When it fits. 

“Sometimes it’s really, really artistically done, like Slovenia. It’s part of the concept and it comes out very beautifully. 

“The UK is another where it really fits because of the whole concept of their act.” 

Raiven from Slovenia is dressed in a translucent, figure-hugging outfit and her backing performers wear skin-coloured underwear. 

The United Kingdom’s Olly Alexander is flanked by four backing dancers dressed in little more than boxing shorts. 

“There are some where I could question it – where it feels speculative. 

“Obviously, that’s up to each and every one, and it’s a matter of taste. 

“But it’s fun. I don’t mind.” 

Björkman didn’t say which countries’ performances he questions, but Finland’s performance has drawn criticism from fans online. 

Windows95man’s entire performance is an act of covering up implied nudity below the waist before a pair of denim shorts descend from above which he then puts on. 

“That’s up to each and every broadcaster,” Björkman said when asked if performances could be blurred or censored. 

“We won’t blur. I know the BBC is very sensitive to this, so they might,” he laughed.