Entertainment

Paddy McGuinness to host BBC tribute show Even Better Than The Real Thing

The special will see the world’s best tribute acts compete.
The special will see the world’s best tribute acts compete. The special will see the world’s best tribute acts compete.

Paddy McGuinness has been announced as the host of new tribute act show Even Better Than The Real Thing.

The BBC special will see the world’s top tribute artists, impersonating acts ranging from Whitney Houston, George Michael and Ariana Grande, compete to be named the best.

Paddy McGuinness to host BBC tribute show Even Better Than The Real Thing
Paddy McGuinness to host BBC tribute show Even Better Than The Real Thing
Paddy McGuinness (BBC)

McGuinness said: “This show is a belter! A talent show that’s only about the talent – with the best tribute acts from around the world singing their hearts out.

“You’ll never have to fork out for expensive concert tickets again. You’ve got front row seats!”


At the end of the 60-minute show the live studio audience will vote for their favourite performer.

Paddy McGuinness to host BBC tribute show Even Better Than The Real Thing
Paddy McGuinness to host BBC tribute show Even Better Than The Real Thing (Ian West/PA Archive/PA Images)
Paddy McGuinness (Ian West/PA)

The one-off show will also return for a Christmas special when acts will perform some of the best loved festive songs from across the decades.

Rachel Ashdown, BBC Entertainment Commissioning Editor, says: “We are thrilled that Paddy will be bringing his unique brand of warmth and wit to these shows which promise to give you some of the best loved songs, performed as you have never seen them before.”