Julvärd is an honoured role. Every year there are months of speculation as the Swedish nation awaits, in anticipation, of who will be announced as this year’s julvärd.
The julvärd is the presenter who is chosen to host SVT’s julafton program of entertainment.
The julvärd has been a long-standing tradition and since 1959. Sweden has come to rely upon having the comfort and company of a friendly, familiar face throughout the day. The Christmas host is always a respected TV personality, someone who brings humour and Christmas spirit whilst offering some reflection and perspective over the years world events.
Julvärd before and now
Since 2003 a different celebrity has been chosen annually. Prior to this a gentleman called Arne Weise hosted the show live for 30 years from 1972-2002. In an interview before his death in 2019 Weise stated that his job as Sweden’s Christmas host was the highlight of his career, although his absence from his family every julafton took its toll. I guess we could say that his family’s loss was the nation’s gain!
Babben Larsson, actress and comedian, will be this year’s Christmas host. Babben’s chosen theme is ‘The relaxed Christmas’. Sounds just perfect, doesn’t it? Why don’t you tune in and find out!
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