Overview
Erik Solbakken (born 17 November 1984 in Hemsedal, Norway) is a television presenter best known for family- and youth-oriented programmes and for hosting major live events. He became widely recognised after co-presenting the Eurovision Song Contest 2010 and has worked extensively for Norway's public broadcaster, NRK. His on-screen persona is associated with warmth, quick timing and the ability to engage both children and general audiences.
Television career and programme types
Solbakken's television work spans studio entertainment, children's television, radio for young listeners and live gala productions. On television he has presented a range of formats including morning shows, quiz programmes, music and entertainment formats, and prime-time competition programmes adapted for Norwegian audiences. He has also presented radio content aimed at younger children.
Notable events and international hosting
One of Solbakken's most visible assignments was the co-hosting of the Eurovision Song Contest 2010, a large international live television festival that brought global attention to the presenters. For that broadcast he shared the stage with two co-hosts, including Nadia Hasnaoui. The ceremony required presenting live to millions of viewers, coordinating with performers and international delegations, and managing rehearsals and live voting segments.
Children's and family programming
A substantial part of Solbakken's portfolio is children's television and family entertainment. He has hosted programmes aimed at younger viewers such as Barne-tv and Julemorgen, and family quiz and entertainment shows including Krem Nasjonal and Superkviss. On radio he has presented Barnetimen for de minste on NRK P2, a programme specifically designed for very young listeners. These roles emphasize gentle humour, clear communication and an approachable presentation style.
Other major assignments and live shows
In addition to children's programmes, Solbakken has hosted high-profile live events. He co-presented the national sports awards show Idrettsgallaen in 2010, and fronted Popstokk, the Norwegian adaptation of the international format sometimes referred to as "BattlePop," which aired in prime time. He also presented the Eurovision Young Dancers competition in 2011, a live contest focusing on emerging dance talent from across Europe.
Style, reception and significance
Erik Solbakken is often regarded as a versatile presenter who moves comfortably between live international broadcasts and intimate programmes for children. Critics and audiences have noted his friendly delivery and professional control of live formats, traits that make him a recurrent choice for both entertainment and special-event hosting on Norwegian public television. His body of work illustrates how a presenter can bridge age groups and programme types while maintaining a consistent on-screen identity.
Selected programmes
- Barne-tv (children's television)
- Julemorgen (seasonal morning show)
- Krem Nasjonal (entertainment)
- Superkviss (family quiz)
- Barnetimen for de minste (NRK P2 radio for young children)
- Eurovision Song Contest 2010 (co-host)
- Eurovision Young Dancers 2011
- Idrettsgallaen (sports awards, 2010)
- Popstokk (Norwegian adaptation of BattlePop)