Speculation was rife tonight after Doctor Who star Ncuti Gatwa withdrew from Eurovision hosting duties with the BBC announcement being made just two minutes after Israel qualified for tomorrow night's final.
The pro-Palestinian actor, 32, had been due to announce the British jury's points for each participating country's song during the Grand Final.
But the BBC issued a statement late on Thursday evening replacing him with singer Sophie Ellis-Bextor triggering speculation it was a protest at the result.
The statement read: 'Due to unforeseen circumstances, unfortunately Ncuti Gatwa is no longer able to participate as Spokesperson during the Grand Final this weekend.
'However, we are delighted to confirm that BBC Radio 2's very own Friday night Kitchen Disco Diva Sophie Ellis-Bextor will be presenting the Jury result live from the UK.'
