Nearly two decades after a controversial incident at the 2005 Eurovision Song Contest, Norwegian rock artist Åge Sten “Glam” Nilsen has finally issued a public apology to Australian television presenter Julia Morris. The long-awaited statement addresses the shocking on-air encounter that recently resurfaced, igniting renewed discussion about consent and celebrity conduct.
Morris, renowned for her vibrant presenting style, recently shared footage of the 2005 interview, vividly recalling how Nilsen touched and kissed her without permission during the live broadcast. Her decision to revisit the uncomfortable moment sparked widespread condemnation of Nilsen’s past actions and commendation for Morris’s courage in speaking out.
The footage, filmed backstage at the Eurovision event in Kyiv, depicts Glam making an unexpected entrance, cigarette in hand, before climbing onto the couch where Morris was seated. He proceeded to straddle her, cradle her face, kiss her cheek, and at one point, touched her chest, all while Morris maintained a remarkably composed demeanor.
Nilsen, vocalist for the band Wig Wam, offered his perspective to the Daily Mail, asserting that his behavior did not reflect his true character. He claimed he was “blind drunk” and performing “in character” as his alter ego, Glam, suggesting that he believed the BBC was “in on it” as part of a “rock ’n roll theatre” performance.
While acknowledging his responsibility, Nilsen stated that he had apologized for the incident 19 years ago in a prior BBC interview and reiterated his apology more recently. Despite his explanation, he conceded that his impaired state did not absolve him of accountability for his character’s “improper behavior” during the broadcast.
Morris, reflecting on the disturbing encounter, revealed the personal toll it took, including having suffered a miscarriage the week before the incident. She explained her professional obligation to maintain an upbeat persona, highlighting the societal pressures on presenters to remain composed even in deeply uncomfortable situations.
The incident also prompted Morris to reflect on the broader context of public behavior and the significant shifts in cultural norms, particularly in the wake of movements like #MeToo. She noted that speaking out against such conduct was far less acceptable in 2005, underscoring the progress made in fostering environments where victims feel empowered to share their experiences.
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