Biography
Who is Tooji?
Early life and background
Born in Shiraz, Iran, on May 26, 1987, the artist moved to Norway at the age of one. His mother is the author and commentator Lily Bandehy. Before pursuing a music career, he completed education as a social worker and was employed at asylum reception centres.
Television and music career
At age 16, Tooji began working as a model. He later transitioned into television, where he hosted programs for MTV Norway including Super Saturday and Tooji's Top 10. His work in media continued as he presented Melodi Grand Prix Junior alongside Margrethe Røed between 2012 and 2022.
In 2012, he won the Melodi Grand Prix, which secured his spot to represent Norway at the Eurovision Song Contest in Baku, Azerbaijan, with his song Stay. He finished in 26th place during the final. In 2013, he released the single Rebels, which he described as a mix of pop-dance and electronic music. Other musical releases include Packin' Guns and Cocktail, the latter of which addressed gender roles in society.
The Father Project and activism
Tooji launched The Father project, which included the song and EP titled Father. This project focused on themes of sexual relationships and institutional hypocrisy within the church. The associated music video was filmed inside a church in Oslo and drew criticism from Ole Christian Kvarme, the Bishop of Oslo, who described it as a misuse of the space. Tooji stated that he lost his hosting role on Melodi Grand Prix Junior as a direct result of the controversy surrounding the video.
He has incorporated social and political messages into his creative work. The music video for his song Say Yeah focused on homophobic hate crimes. Also, he has expressed support for the Green Wave democratic reform movement in Iran, wearing a green bracelet during his 2012 Eurovision performance.
Personal life
In June 2015, the artist came out as gay through an interview with the Norwegian website Gaysir. He stated that he hoped being open about his sexuality would help younger gay people. His decision was supported by the Norwegian National Association for Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals and Transgender People.
Birthday and age
Tooji was born on May 26, 1987, which makes Tooji 39 years old today. That birthday falls under the Gemini sign. Tooji shares the date with 14 other famous people.
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