When the EBU confirmed that Eurovision 2020 was cancelled, it opened up a big gap in the schedules of broadcasters around Europe. Suddenly three prime-time television shows were missing from mid-May schedules. But there may be a solution. German television executive Thomas Schreiber has hinted at a replacement show from the EBU.

Thomas Schreiber, Head of Entertainment at German broadcaster ARD, spoke about the disappointment of the 2020 contest being cancelled. But he said, “it is the only right decision.” Schreiber was also clear that “the health of everyone must be the top priority.”

He also hinted that 2020 might not be the end of the line for Germany’s 2020 artist Ben Dolic. The young singer was due to perform his song “Violent Thing”. Schreiber suggests fans may see more of Dolic, saying “We will now discuss with our creative partners what this means in detail for us and our artist Ben Dolic with his successful song “Violent Thing”.”

What will replace Eurovision on May 16?

Broadcasters around Europe now have a four-hour gap in their prime-time Saturday-night schedule for May 16. Schreiber suggests that the EBU may come to the rescue with some sort of show.

He told German Eurovision fans, “We will let you know as soon as possible whether there will be a Europe-wide offer from the EBU for all 41 countries that would have taken part in the ESC this year.” If this isn’t possible, Schreiber says that German channel Das Erste will instead broadcast a “Eurovision evening”.

No alternate programming details have been confirmed for the first semi-final on 12 May, which Germany was also due to broadcast.

Germany is one of the so-called “Big Five” countries of Europe and is considered a powerful member of the Eurovision family.

What do you think? Should the EBU produce a replacement show for European viewers to screen on May 16? What sort of show would you like to see? Tell us your thoughts below!

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