Barry McGuigan reveals singing talent inherited from Eurovision star father

Barry McGuigan, a former world boxing champion from Northern Ireland, showcased his vocal talents during a recent performance in the reality TV show 'I'm A Celeb.' He delivered a heartfelt rendition of the McFly song 'Shine A Light' alongside fellow campmate Danny Jones. This display of musical ability is attributed to his father, Pat McGeegan, who competed in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1968 and placed fourth with his song 'Chance of a Lifetime.' McGuigan's campmate Rev Richard Coles praised Barry's singing abilities, describing them as a 'revelation' and stating it was 'lovely.' Barry McGuigan, 63, reflected on his father's musical legacy and the impact it had on his life. He spoke fondly of Pat, who passed away in 1987, saying he played a 'hugely important part' in his life. Pat was known for his musical skills, performing in several big bands and using the stage surname McGeegan. Barry recalled the excitement of his father participating in Eurovision, stating that their hometown was 'abuzz' with anticipation. In particular, he remembered the emotional moment when Pat was involved in such a significant event in their lives, creating lasting memories for Barry as a child. Comparing their careers, Barry noted that both he and his father had key moments in London, with Barry winning the WBA featherweight title in 1985 in a match that drew nearly 20 million viewers on BBC. He expressed a sense of pride in his father's achievements but also conveyed a longing for the bygone days of Eurovision's credibility, pointing to the major artists who participated in that era, such as Cliff Richard and ABBA. Barry suggested that the contest had lost some of its gravitas over the years and had become more of a 'throwaway' event in modern times. Nevertheless, he believes his father's participation in Eurovision was a defining moment in their family history. The recently aired performance highlighted the deep-rooted musical influences in Barry's life and serves as a reminder of the legacy left by his father, whose presence and influence continue to resonate in Barry's endeavors. Through this experience, Barry McGuigan not only celebrated his own talent but also honored the memory of his father, showcasing how their artistic spirits remain intertwined.