Yle, the Finnish national broadcaster, announces a significant change behind the scenes of Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu (UMK), their acclaimed national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest. Anssi Autio, the long-standing Executive Producer of UMK, is set to leave his position. Autio confirmed his departure via LinkedIn.
Anssi Autio has been a pivotal figure in the recent success and evolution of UMK, which has grown to become one of Europe’s most anticipated national selections for the Eurovision Song Contest. He has been part of UMK since its inception in 2011, when it replaced Euroviisut as Finland’s national selection. Under his guidance, UMK has consistently delivered high-quality productions and unearthed popular acts that have gone on to represent Finland on the international stage, achieving three top-five finishes since 2021.
His departure marks the end of an era for the Finnish selection show, which has seen immense popularity and critical acclaim in recent years. Yle has not yet commented on who will take over as the Executive Producer of UMK. The search for a successor is expected to begin shortly, as Yle prepares for the upcoming national selection season and its continued commitment to finding the best possible representative for Finland at Eurovision.
UMK’s official Instagram account posted the following statement:
UMK’s Lead Producer Anssi Autio is heading towards new adventures. Under Anssi’s leadership, UMK has grown into Finland’s biggest music show and one of Europe’s most respected Eurovision selections, celebrated by fans around the world. KIITOS ANSSI
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Further details regarding Anssi Autio’s future plans or the specific timeline for his departure are yet to be fully disclosed by Yle. The announcement leaves fans eager to see who will take the helm of UMK and what direction the show will take in the coming years. UMK 2027 is already scheduled to take place on February 20 in Nokia Arena in Tampere, with artist applications opening on August 17.
