Swedish broadcaster SVT is preparing a high-profile return for one of its most familiar faces. Gina Dirawi, one of the most experienced hosts in Melodifestivalen history, is set to make her comeback at the helm of the 2026 contest. She will be joined on stage by actor, comedian, and musician Hampus Nessvold in what insiders are calling a major move for Sweden’s biggest entertainment show.

Dirawi, 34, has long been considered one of the strongest presenters in SVT’s arsenal, having guided viewers through 18 Melodifestivalen broadcasts between 2012 and 2016. Over the years, she has shared hosting duties with names such as Sarah Dawn Finer, Helena Bergström, and Danny Saucedo. Her energy and flair for musical numbers have made her a fan favorite, and her return is widely seen as a move to build on the huge success of the 2024 edition, which critics hailed as the best since 2016.

Nessvold, 29, is already well known to SVT audiences thanks to his breakout role in the comedy character “Terese i kassan” and appearances in programs like Trevlig helg!. Beyond comedy, he has toured with the stage show Ta det som en man directed by Mia Skäringer, and his background as a singer adds another layer of versatility to this year’s presenting duo.

One source close to the production explained:

“He is a talented singer too, which means he can absolutely take part in show numbers and interval acts that have become a hallmark of Melodifestivalen. And Gina enjoys doing that as well” 

Meanwhile, preparations for the competition itself are well underway. A record 3,888 songs have been submitted for Melodifestivalen 2026. In line with new regulations, the final selection of entries will no longer be determined solely by a preliminary jury. Instead, SVT’s editorial team will now make the ultimate decision, though the jury’s recommendations will continue to play a guiding role.

Behind the scenes, speculation about this hosting pairing has been circulating since spring, with decisions said to have been finalized during the summer. For SVT, bringing together Dirawi’s proven track record with Nessvold’s rising popularity appears to be a strategic attempt to create another memorable season of Sweden’s most-watched entertainment format.

Source: Aftonbladet

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