Eurovision 2024 – live: ‘Life is forever changed’ says Bambie Thug after chaotic contest

Reactions to the most chaotic Eurovision in history are pouring in after Switzerland act Nemo was crowned as this year’s winner.

The 68th Eurovision Song Contest was held in Malmö, Sweden, with scores arriving from the 25 countries that performed in the final, and in the wake of behind-the-scenes chaos.

Despite winning the contest, Nemo has not held back in their assessment of the organisers after it was revealed audience members were not permitted to bring non-binary flags into the arena.

Meanwhile, Irish delegate Bambie Thug has tearfully accused organisers of “not supporting them” over a row with an Israeli broadcaster. Afterwards, they said their life is “forever changed”.

Throughout the event, Pro-Palestine demonstrations took place outside the arena, with Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg removed by police.

Israel’s delegate Eden Golan performed early in the contest, with the BBC’s Graham Norton remarking on the boos heard by the crowd.

The UK’s entry Olly Alexander received a rather low score for his song “Dizzy”, after Ireland’s Bambie Thug dazzled with “Doomsday Blues”, following speculation that they could pull out of the final after missing the dress rehearsal.

Follow live updates below:

Eurovision 2024 key points

• Switzerland wins the Eurovision Song Contest 2024

• Eurovision 2024 review: Contest unfolds under the darkest shadow in its history

• Katie Price was the Eurovision winner that got away

• Watch the moment Nemo wins the Eurovision final

‘Peace, love’ and politics: The statements and outbursts on politically-charged Eurovision Song Contest

00:30 , Jacob Stolworthy

Find out how different acts addressed one of the most controversial Eurovision contests in recent history.

‘Peace, love’ and politics: List of outbursts from a politically charged Eurovision

Why was Joost Klein disqualified from Eurovision?

23:30 , Jacob Stolworthy

Netherlands has shed more light on the “incident” that led to Eurovision’s disqualification of Dutch delegate Joost Klein.

Klein was barred from being able to perform at the event hours before it was scheduled to take place as police investigated a complaint of inappropriate behaviour made by a female member of the production crew.

AVROTROS, who organises Netherlands’ entry to the Eurovision Song Contest, was unimpressed by the “disproportionate” decision.

More here

Netherlands reveals why Joost Klein was disqualified from Eurovision

The 5 most bizarre moments from Eurovision 2024

22:30 , Jacob Stolworthy

From an almost-naked performance from Finland, a bizarre clip of a group of underwhelmed Brighton residents and a repetitive ‘Gilmore Girls’ gag, we break down the most bizarre moments.

The 5 most bizarre moments from Eurovision 2024

Eurovision winner breaks trophy

21:30 , Jacob Stolworthy

Eurovision Song Contest winner Nemo Mettler appeared to break their trophy following victory in Malmo on Saturday (11 May).

Ironically, the incident occurred seconds after UK commentator Graham Norton warned, “Don’t break the trophy”.

Nemo triumphantly shook the trophy in their left hand for the audience, before placing it on the floor.

As the focus returned to Nemo, the broadcast camera caught a broken stem left behind.

Bambie Thug criticises Eurovision organisers

20:30 , Jacob Stolworthy

Bambie Thug has accused Eurovision organisers of “not supporting”them over a row with Israel.

The singer, who secured a sixth place finish in Ireland’s first grand final of the music event since 2018, accused the Israeli broadcaster, Kan, of a rule break and said they have been waiting to hear back from the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) about what action would be taken.

More here

Bambie Thug cries as they claim Eurovision bosses ‘not supportive’ in Israel row

Our verdict on this year’s Eurovision Song Contest

19:30 , Jacob Stolworthy

Eurovision 2024 unfolded under the darkest shadow in its history, withe the atmopsher backstage said to have been on a knife-edge.

Yet, despite gaping fractures in its façade of international musical unity, the show went on – and you can find music editor Roisin O’Connor’s verdict on the contest below.

Eurovision 2024 unfolded under the darkest shadow in its history -review

Eurovision winner addresses non-binary flag controversy

18:30 , Jacob Stolworthy

Switzerland act Nemo was crowned this year’s Eurovision winner after what has been the most controversial contest in its history.

In a press conference after the event, Nemo was asked about organisers making audience members throw away the non-binary flag before entering the arena.

“That is unbelievable. I had to smuggle my flag in because Eurovision said no, but I did it anyway, so I hope some people did that too. But, I mean, come on, this is clearly a double standard. I broke the trophy. The trophy can be fixed – maybe Eurovision needs fixing a little bit too every now and then.”

Eurovision winner Nemo hits out at organisers over ‘unbelievable double standard’

Eurovision viewing figures plummet

17:30 , Jacob Stolworthy

Those who planned to boycott this year’s Eurovision clearly made good of their promise, with overnight ratings revealing a substantial drop from 2023’s figures, which was the most-watched Eurovision since viewing records began.

Read more here

Eurovision viewing figures plummet after series of issues

Olly Alexander’s father is surprised by the response to son’s performance

16:30 , Jacob Stolworthy

Olly Alexander’s father has expressed surprise over his son receiving zero points in the Eurovision public vote.

David Thornton described his son’s participation as a “fantastic learning experience”, calling it “one more step to wherever he’s going”.

However, he said he thought people would “connect” more with Alexander’s performance of the song “Dizzy”, which he said he “enjoyed”.

“To me, it’s a real surprise the public didn’t sort of connect with that song, though the juries gave it a really good score,” Thornton said.

Alexander finished in 18th place out of 25.

Why was Joost Klein disqualified from Eurovision?

14:30 , Jacob Stolworthy

Netherlands has shed more light on the “incident” that led to Eurovision’s disqualification of Dutch delegate Joost Klein.

Klein was barred from being able to perform at the event hours before it was scheduled to take place as police investigated a complaint of inappropriate behaviour made by a female member of the production crew.

AVROTROS, who organises Netherlands’ entry to the Eurovision Song Contest, was unimpressed by the “disproportionate” decision.

More here

Netherlands reveals why Joost Klein was disqualified from Eurovision

‘Peace, love’ and politics: The statements and outbursts on politically-charged Eurovision Song Contest

14:00 , Jacob Stolworthy

Find out how different acts addressed one of the most controversial Eurovision contests in recent history.

‘Peace, love’ and politics: List of outbursts from a politically charged Eurovision

UK’s Olly Alexander receives mixed reaction to Eurovision performance

13:15 , Jacob Stolworthy

Olly Alexander received a mixed reaction to his racy Eurovision Song Contest performance.

The British singer, 33, performed his song “Dizzy” alongside a group of backing dancers – his first release under his own name.

The Brit was supported in the UK by narrator Graham Norton, who described the performance as “terrific”, but admitted that he did not know how well it would do because “it is so different to everything else in the contest tonight.”

More here

UK’s Olly Alexander receives mixed reaction to Eurovision performance

The 5 most bizarre moments from Eurovision 2024

12:45 , Jacob Stolworthy

From an almost-naked performance from Finland, a bizarre clip of a group of underwhelmed Brighton residents and a repetitive ‘Gilmore Girls’ gag, we break down the most bizarre moments.

The 5 most bizarre moments from Eurovision 2024

Eurovision winner breaks trophy

12:22 , Jacob Stolworthy

Eurovision Song Contest winner Nemo Mettler appeared to break their trophy following victory in Malmo on Saturday (11 May).

Ironically, the incident occurred seconds after UK commentator Graham Norton warned, “Don’t break the trophy”.

Nemo triumphantly shook the trophy in their left hand for the audience, before placing it on the floor.

As the focus returned to Nemo, the broadcast camera caught a broken stem left behind.

Switzerland Eurovision winner Nemo smashes trophy during victory celebrations

Bambie Thug levies accusation against Eurovision organisers

11:45 , Jacob Stolworthy

Bambie Thug has accused Eurovision organisers of “not supporting”them over a row with Israel.

The singer, who secured a sixth place finish in Ireland’s first grand final of the music event since 2018, accused the Israeli broadcaster, Kan, of a rule break and said they have been waiting to hear back from the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) about what action would be taken.

More here

Bambie Thug cries as they claim Eurovision bosses ‘not supportive’ in Israel row

Our verdict on this year’s Eurovision Song Contest

10:30 , Jacob Stolworthy

Eurovision 2024 unfolded under the darkest shadow in its history, withe the atmopsher backstage said to have been on a knife-edge.

Yet, despite gaping fractures in its façade of international musical unity, the show went on – and you can find music editor Roisin O’Connor’s verdict on the contest below.

Eurovision 2024 unfolded under the darkest shadow in its history -review

Olly Alexander takes low score in his stride

10:05 , Jacob Stolworthy

This is the moment the UK’s Eurovision entry Olly Alexander found out the public had awarded him null points.

The 33-year-old represented the UK with his track Dizzy, and while votes from the jury appeared positive on Saturday night (11 May), the singer sadly received no points from the public.

The Years And Years singer and his team seemed to take the news in their stride as they were pictured laughing and cheering after the news was announced.

The UK finished with a low score of 46.

Eurovision winner addresses non-binary flag controversy

08:50 , Jacob Stolworthy

Switzerland act Nemo was crowned this year’s Eurovision winner after what has been the most controversial contest in its history.

In a press conference after the event, Nemo was asked about organisers making audience members throw away the non-binary flag before entering the arena.

“That is unbelievable. I had to smuggle my flag in because Eurovision said no, but I did it anyway, so I hope some people did that too. But, I mean, come on, this is clearly a double standard. I broke the trophy. The trophy can be fixed – maybe Eurovision needs fixing a little bit too every now and then.”

'We need more compassion, empathy,' Nemo says after winning

07:30 , Vishwam Sankaran

Swiss singer Nemo expressed pride in accepting the trophy, adding that they wished for the event to stand for “peace and dignity for every person”.

Being the first nonbinary winner of the contest, they said they accepted the trophy for “people that are daring to be themselves and people that need to be heard and need to be understood”.

Nemo added: “Thank you so much...We need more compassion, we need more empathy.”

Nemo is also the first Swiss winner of Eurovision since 1988 when Canadian chanteuse Celine Dion competed under the Swiss flag.

ICYMI: Olly Alexander performs gravity-defying 'Dizzy'

06:30 , Vishwam Sankaran

UK’s Olly Alexander took the stage to perform a gravity-defying choreography of “Dizzy”.

The performance featured a group of men in red boxing shorts dancing alongside Alexander, sometimes hanging upside down.

Alexander has faced criticism for choosing to remain in Eurovision as a group called “Queers for Palestine” called for the pop singer to withdraw from the event.

“We firmly believe in the unifying power of music, enabling people to transcend differences and foster meaningful conversations and connections,” Alexander and other participating artists said in an open letter.

Fans expressed disappointment online as a series of sound issues seemed to have affected Alexander’s final performance.

Fans spot Bambie Thug’s secret message supporting Palestine

05:38 , Vishwam Sankaran

Eurovision fans think they have spotted a secret message from Bambie Thug during her Eurovision final performance.

The “ouji pop” artist, who performed gothic Doomsday Blue, received 136 points to finish in the sixth place.

In the lead-up to the event, they had also voiced concerns that it was “the wrong decision” not to exclude Israel, as Russia had been two years ago.

They accused organisers of not supporting them over a row with Israel during the event.

“Yeah, so Kan the broadcaster incited violence against me twice, three times. We brought it up to the EBU. They said they follow up,” Bambie said.

“They waited to the last minute, we still haven’t gotten statement back to us, allowed us to be scapegoats, allowed us to be the spokesperson for standing up for ourselves,” they added.

The non-binary artist initially wrote the words “Ceasefire” and “Saoirse Don Phalistin,” the latter of which translates to “freedom for Palestine,” on their face and legs, the Irish Examiner reported.

“Bambie Thug has managed to sneak “ceasefire” in Ogham (old Irish alphabet) on their face past censors. We have no choice but to stan,” one X user said.

“Bambi Thug has ogham symbols (old Irish alphabet) reading “ceasefire” on their face! If you’re going to vote, vote Ireland,” another wrote on X.

But the EBU asked Bambie to change the markings displayed on their face and legs ahead of their performance.

“Unfortunately, I had to change those messages today to ‘crown the witch’ only (which was an) order from the EBU,” Bambie said.

Fans took to social media to point out that Bambie had the word “ceasefire” initially written in the ancient Irish alphabet Ogham on their face.

When asked why they included “hidden” messages in their performance, Bambie said it was important to them as they are “pro-justice” and “pro-peace”.

Observers react to Israel getting 12 points from UK viewers

05:00 , Vishwam Sankaran

The UK public gave its 12 points to Israel in this year’s Eurovision, sparking criticism online, especially since the country’s own Olly Alexander received zero votes from the public.

Israel’s inclusion in this year’s event sparked controversy due to the country’s ongoing invasion of Gaza following the Hamas attack on Israel on 7 October.

Thousands took to the streets ahead of the contest to protest after Israel’s contestant Eden Golan, qualified for the Grand Final.

Organisers also forced a change to the original title of Ms Golan’s song, “October Rain” which was seen as an apparent reference to the 7 October Hamas attack on Israel that killed about 1,200 people and triggered the war in Gaza.

While organisers made a plea for the crowd not to boo any artists, there were audible jeers as Golan performed.

The winner was decided based on votes from television audiences in Europe and around the world in combination with votes from juries of music professionals.

Ms Golan came fifth with 375 points, including 12 votes from the UK public.

“Disgusted in the UK for giving 12 points to Israel. Can’t believe my own country would vote and basically show support for horrific crimes and genocide,” one user wrote on X.

The UK scored zero in the public vote with a section of the audience complaining online that they struggled to hear Alexander.

Despite scoring only 52 points from the other country’s jury votes, Ms Golan topped the UK’s public vote with 12.

Ireland's Bambie Thug accused Israeli broadcaster of rule break

04:25 , Vishwam Sankaran

Bambi Thug posted on Instagram that they raised “multiple complaints” to the European Broadcasting Union about “instances” they experienced this week, including one involving an Israeli commentator from broadcaster KAN.

In the lead-up to the event, they had voiced concerns that it was “the wrong decision” not to exclude Israel, as Russia had been two years ago.

The singer missed their dress rehearsal, citing that they needed to bring a situation to the “urgent attention” of the EBU.

“They confirmed to my delegation in front of others that KAN’s commentator had broken the rules of conduct during the Eurovision Semi-Final 1,” the artist said.

“I have been patiently awaiting to hear what action is set to be taken by the EBU following this rule break,” Bambi Thug added.

The Irish artist, who performed the gothic Doomsday Blue, finished at sixth place with 136 points.

'Had to smuggle nonbinary flag in,' Eurovision winner Nemo says

03:50 , Vishwam Sankaran

Eurovision winner Swiss artist Nemo said they had to “smuggle” a nonbinary flag into the event because “Eurovison said no.”

“Maybe Eurovision needs a little fixing too every now and then,” they said.

Restrictions on what flags are permitted have also seen artists and fans stopped from displaying the Palestinian flag at this year’s event.

Nemo said they were “incredibly proud” to be the first nonbinary Eurovision winner, adding that queer people “need to be heard and need to be understood”.

“To know that a song where I speak about my story has touched so many people, and maybe inspired other people to stay true to their stories, is the most insane thing that has ever happened to me,” they said.

UK’s Olly Alexander receives mixed reaction to Eurovision performance

03:01 , Ellie Muir

Find out what viewers made of Olly Alexander’s performance of his song “Dizzy” during the final, in which he came 18th.

UK’s Olly Alexander receives mixed reaction to Eurovision performance

Abbatars perform ‘Waterloo’ at Eurovision 50 years after win

02:59 , Ellie Muir

Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s winner, Switzerland’s Nemo

02:28 , Ellie Muir

The 24-year-old artist, full name Nemo Mettler, is already known as a musician in their home country and was the recipient of four Swiss Music Awards in 2018, including Song of the Year for their single “Du”.

Find out more about Nemo below:

Meet Nemo, Switzerland’s Eurovision 2024 entry

Greta Thunberg removed from pro-Palestine protests by Swedish police outside Eurovision arena

02:01 , Ellie Muir

Climate activist Geta Thunberg has been removed by Swedish police outside the Malmö arena where the Eurovision final took place.

Find out below:

Abbatars perform at Eurovision after hosts tease performance from real band

Abbatars perform at Eurovision after hosts tease performance from Swedish pop supergroup

01:30 , Ellie Muir

Viewers felt duped into thinking they might see Abba reunite, even though the band hasn’t performed live together since 1982.

Read more below:

Abbatars perform at Eurovision after hosts tease performance from real band

‘Peace, love’ and politics: The statements and outbursts on politically-charged Eurovision song contest

01:01 , Ellie Muir

Find out how different acts addressed one of the most controversial Eurovision contests in recent history.

‘Peace, love’ and politics: List of outbursts from a politically charged Eurovision

Switzerland’s Nemo Mettler crowned winner of Eurovision after public vote

Sunday 12 May 2024 00:53 , Roisin O'Connor

Sunday 12 May 2024 00:49 , Roisin O'Connor

Switzerland has been crowned the Eurovision Song Contest 2024 champion, winning thanks to singer Nemo and their song “The Code”.

The 24-year-old pop singer, who goes by they/them pronouns, won over both the jury and the public voters, after what looked like an initially close match with fellow favourites Croatia, France and Italy.

Their song “The Code”, which incorporated elements of opera, pop, rap and dance, was written by Benjamin Alasu, Lasse Midtsian Nymann, Linda Dale and Nemo. It riffed cleverly on the Habanera aria from Georges Bizet’s 1985 opera Carmen, and had drawn comparisons to the dramatic themes of the James Bond franchise.

Accepting the trophy from 2023 winner Loreen, Nemo thanked voters and said they “hoped this competition can continue to live up to its promise to stand for dignity and peace everywhere”, a pointed remark that seemed to nod to the controversy that has surrounded this year’s event.

The 68th Eurovision Song Contest was overshadowed by rumours of backstage rows, tears, a disqualified contestant and public protests over Israel’s participation in the grand final.

Full report:

Switzerland’s Nemo wins the Eurovision Song Contest 2024

Eurovision 2024 review: Contest unfolds under the darkest shadow in its history

Sunday 12 May 2024 00:48 , Roisin O'Connor

Eurovision 2024 unfolded under the darkest shadow in its history -review

The scores are in for Israel

Saturday 11 May 2024 23:43 , Roisin O'Connor

A total of 375 points for Israel, who are promptly overtaken by Ukraine with a huge score from the public.

But then... 337 points for Croatia’s Baby Lasagna, pushing them to the No 1 spot!

Bad news for Norway as they come dead last in the 2024 Eurovision final

Saturday 11 May 2024 23:38 , Roisin O'Connor

Poor Norway, but really they didn’t arrive with the same standard they usually do, just a good singer, which is very hard to make stand out.

Some very low public scores elsewhere, meaning the votes have gone to two or three big favourites...

Here’s a look at the scoreboard so far

Saturday 11 May 2024 23:27 , Roisin O'Connor

More votes for Switzerland, with Ireland and Portugal still doing well!

Saturday 11 May 2024 23:09 , Roisin O'Connor

It’s looking like it could be a very tight race between Switzerland and Ireland, although we’ve still got the rest of the jury and then the public vote to get through.

The UK’s Olly Alexander is still languishing behind Israel, which currently has 19 points.

Switzerland getting a lot of the jury votes for Nemo

Saturday 11 May 2024 23:02 , Roisin O'Connor

Nemo looks shocked as they receive a clutch of douze points from the jury votes!

So far nul points for the UK, but Ireland is looking good, as is Italy, Portugal and Croatia.

A reminder that the public vote can change everything...

Eurovision 2024 favourites: Our Top 10, from Croatia’s Baby Lasagna to Ireland’s Bambie Thug

Saturday 11 May 2024 22:55 , Roisin O'Connor

From zany novelty songs to club bangers and heartfelt ballads, the competition at this year’s Eurovision Song Contest is fierce. We take a look at our favourites

Who’s going to win Eurovision 2024? Our top 10 favourites

Saturday 11 May 2024 22:46 , Roisin O'Connor

TV chat show host Graham Norton said “it's been quite an eventful Eurovision this year” as the annual song contest kicked off.

The music competition is taking place in Malmo Arena after Swedish singer Loreen won the contest last year with her song Tattoo.

As the competition got under way on Saturday, Norton, 61, who is the commentator for coverage on BBC One said: “It's been quite an eventful Eurovision this year, but hopefully tonight we will bring you the usual beauty, mayhem, madness and of course, male nudity.”

This year protesters have called for a boycott of Eurovision over Israel's inclusion in the contest amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

During the grand final the country's entry, Eden Golan, performed her song Hurricane to audible boos and cheers in the arena.

Irish TV presenter Norton described the crowd as having a “mixed reaction”.

He added: “In some of the open rehearsals we heard more booing, but there was quite a lot of cheering tonight as well and I should tell you that that song is tipped to do very well tonight.”

Press Association

Eurovision 2023 champion Loreen appears for a dramatic performance

Saturday 11 May 2024 22:44 , Roisin O'Connor

Loreen won the 2023 song contest for Sweden with her single “Tattoo”, and is back for a racing, techno-infused performance at the Malmo Arena.

She is tasked with handing over the Eurovision trophy to the winner when they announced.

Eurovision fans chant 'shame on you' outside Malmo Arena as grand final unfolds

Saturday 11 May 2024 22:40 , Roisin O'Connor

Abbatars perform at Eurovision after hosts tease performance from Swedish pop supergroup

Saturday 11 May 2024 22:37 , Roisin O'Connor

They’ve brought out the Abbatars!

Saturday 11 May 2024 22:30 , Roisin O'Connor

After some unacceptable rickrolling (or Alcazarring), the Abbatars from London’s purpose-built arena have been brought out for a rendition of “Waterloo”, with some help from their fellow Eurovision champions including Austria’s Conchita Wurst.

Eurovision: Boos and ‘mixed reaction’ after Israel’s Eden Golan performs

Saturday 11 May 2024 22:30 , Roisin O'Connor

How to vote in the Eurovision Song Contest 2024 final and how the rules have changed

Saturday 11 May 2024 22:20 , Roisin O'Connor

How to vote in the Eurovision Song Contest 2024 final

Eurovision fans proclaim Croatia’s Baby Lasagna favourite to win

Saturday 11 May 2024 22:19 , Roisin O'Connor

The crowd at the Eurovision Song Contest were sent into a frenzy by Croatia’s maverick entry Baby Lasagna with his eccentric performance of his self-written song “Rim Tim Tagi Dim”.

Singer-songwriter Marko Purišić, 28, who is from Umag, Croatia, and performs under the pseudonym Baby Lasagna, gained an overwhelming reaction from fans in the Malmö Arena, Sweden, who have already proclaimed him the favourite of this year’s competition.

My colleague Ellie Muir reports:

Eurovision fans proclaim Croatia’s Baby Lasagna favourite to win

Here’s Croatia!

Saturday 11 May 2024 21:59 , Roisin O'Connor

Meet Baby Lasagna, the maverick singer representing Croatia in the Eurovision final

Thoughts on Nemo’s performance from Switzerland

Saturday 11 May 2024 21:48 , Roisin O'Connor

Really standout performance from Switzerland’s Nemo with their spectacular, operatic song “The Code”, which touches on themes of identify and breaking down barriers.

Meet Nemo, Switzerland’s Eurovision 2024 entry singing ‘The Code’ in the semi-final

Saturday 11 May 2024 21:46 , Roisin O'Connor

Meet Nemo, Switzerland’s Eurovision 2024 entry

Meet Nemo, Switzerland’s Eurovision 2024 entry singing ‘The Code’ in the semi-final

Saturday 11 May 2024 21:41 , Roisin O'Connor

Meet Nemo, Switzerland’s Eurovision 2024 entry

Portugal’s singer iolanda cries ‘peace will prevail’ after performance

Saturday 11 May 2024 21:38 , Roisin O'Connor

Some of Eurovision’s contestants are defying the EBU’s stance on ‘political’ statements, as they call for peace.

So far, Ireland’s Bambie Thug and Portugal’s iolanda have both made statements following their performances, with iolanda shouting “peace will prevail” after she sang “Grito”.

Protests outside the Malmo Arena in Sweden, where the final is taking place, are still ongoing.

Greta Thunberg removed from Stop Israel protests at Eurovision arena

Is Finland’s Windows95Man really naked?

Saturday 11 May 2024 21:31 , Roisin O'Connor

Don’t worry, there is a flesh-coloured thong there, but he really does look very naked. Clever camera angles.

Serbia is giving Evanescence

Saturday 11 May 2024 21:27 , Roisin O'Connor

Super dark, super goth. Love it. Beautiful voice and delivery, too. There’s a lot of big flashy staging in this competition, so actually, a more understated performance is likely to stick in the minds of voters.

Nice pipes on Norway...

Saturday 11 May 2024 21:21 , Roisin O'Connor

Really strong vocal performance, and we all know Eurovision loves a strong vocal. Next up we have Italy, another favourite, starring Angelina Mango singing “La noia”.

Thoughts on the UK’s Olly Alexander

Saturday 11 May 2024 21:11 , Roisin O'Connor

Again, sorry to anyone rooting for Olly Alexander but that was really not great. Lot of bum notes - he’s not got the best range to begin with - and the dancing was lacklustre, featuring some very unenthusiastic thrusting. I wouldn’t be surprised if he ends up in the bottom five.

Fun fact about this year’s contest

Saturday 11 May 2024 21:03 , Roisin O'Connor

This is the first Eurovision in history where all the finalists are singing songs in the minor key.

Weird, right? Stats show that songs in the major key have traditionally done very well, but apparently everyone’s in the doldrums at this year’s contest. It’s making for some great songs, though, from Bambie Thug’s “Doomsday Blues” to Italy’s “La Noia”.

Eurovision 2024 favourites: Our Top 10, from Croatia’s Baby Lasagna to Ireland’s Bambie Thug

Saturday 11 May 2024 21:02 , Roisin O'Connor

From zany novelty songs to club bangers and heartfelt ballads, the competition at this year’s Eurovision Song Contest is fierce. We take a look at our favourites

Who’s going to win Eurovision 2024? Our top 10 favourites

In pictures: Bambie Thug performs ‘Doomsday Blues’ in the Eurovision final

Saturday 11 May 2024 20:59 , Roisin O'Connor

Who is Bambie Thug? The Irish ‘goth gremlin’ leaving Eurovision fans ‘speechless’

Saturday 11 May 2024 20:56 , Roisin O'Connor

Who is Bambie Thug? The Irish ‘goth gremlin’ leaving Eurovision fans ‘speechless’

Thoughts on Estonia’s performance

Saturday 11 May 2024 20:55 , Roisin O'Connor

I mean... what do you even say. Absolutely batshit, the best kind of Eurovision performance in my view. Because it’s batshit, yes, but it’s brilliant as well. I particularly enjoyed their weird dance battle with musical instruments. Spectacular.

Saturday 11 May 2024 20:52 , Roisin O'Connor

Graham Norton being praised for ‘honesty’ as some fans claim they couldn’t hear the booing he mentioned during Israel’s performance (I definitely could and I’m watching the BBC broadcast.

Thoughts on Spain’s performance!

Saturday 11 May 2024 20:50 , Roisin O'Connor

Nebulossa is a great favourite and it’s easy to see why, you can’t help but adore them. The Spanish electropop duo are singer Maria Bas and keyboardist / producer Mark Dasousa. And their song “ZORRA” is a proper Europop banger that has the crowd really up and cheering for the first time since the event got underway.

In pictures: Eden Golan performing for Israel

Saturday 11 May 2024 20:39 , Roisin O'Connor

Israel’s Eden Golan performs with audible booing heard in the audience

Saturday 11 May 2024 20:37 , Roisin O'Connor

The most controversial performance, undoubtedly, was always going to be Israel’s Eden Golan. You can hear the jeering and booing in the live crowd.

Golan is singing “Hurricane”, which became Israel’s entry after they were told to change original song “October Rain”, widely interpreted as a reference to the 7 October attacks by Hamas.

Who is Eden Golan? Israel’s Eurovision contestant singing in the final

Eurovision 2024 final plunged into further chaos after French singer’s speech

Saturday 11 May 2024 20:31 , Roisin O'Connor

This year’s Eurovision Song Contest has had chaotic start amid widespread protests about Israel’s participation in the competition.

A thousands-strong pro-Palestinian protest has broken out in the host country of Sweden, arguing that Israel should not be allowed to compete amid the country’s ongoing war on Gaza.

France’s entrant Slimane Nebch took the opportunity to call for peace during their rehearsal, telling the audience: “United by music, yes, but for love, for peace.”

Two jurors have also given up their power in the competition, with Finland’s Käärijä saying that it “doesn’t feel right” to give out points in the 2024 competition.

Full story:

Eurovision 2024 final plunged into further chaos after French singer’s speech

Thoughts on Germany’s performance

Saturday 11 May 2024 20:28 , Roisin O'Connor

So sorry to all the German fans reading this, but I find ISAAK’S performance so dull, it’s giving the UK’s disastrous James Newman in 2021.

Thoughts on Ukraine’s performance

Saturday 11 May 2024 20:25 , Roisin O'Connor

I absolutely love Ukraine’s song “Teresa & Maria”, I think it’s incredibly affecting, sung in Ukrainian, with an amazing rap interlude from Alyona Alyona, a former school teacher who’s hoping her performance with singer Jerry Heil will help raise funds to rebuild a school destroyed by a Russian missile. Super slick rapping: her inspirations include Eminem, Missy Elliott and Princess Nokia!

Meet Ukraine’s Eurovision contestants Alyona Alyona and Jerry Heil

Saturday 11 May 2024 20:23 , Roisin O'Connor

Meet Ukraine’s Eurovision contestants: Alyona Alyona and Jerry Heil

Thoughts on Sweden’s performance by Marcus & Martinus

Saturday 11 May 2024 20:21 , Roisin O'Connor

So I had a brief chat with Norwegian twins Marcus & Martinus... they are lovely, of course, but this has to be one of the weakest of Sweden’s Eurovision entries in years. It’s a sub-standard club bop, taking vague nods from The Weeknd but failing to pull off the same thrills and spills.

Meet Sweden’s Eurovision 2024 entry, Norwegian twins Marcus and Martinus

Saturday 11 May 2024 20:19 , Roisin O'Connor

Looks like we’re in for a Bambie Thug performance!

Saturday 11 May 2024 20:13 , Roisin O'Connor

Hopefully I’m not calling it too early, but given Bambie Thug just appeared during the flag parade, it seems very likely we’ll get to see them perform in the grand final.

Another observation: the crowd look considerably more muted than I’ve seen them in previous Eurovision finals where they are going absolutely ballistic.

BBC off to a rocky start with Graham Norton’s coverage

Saturday 11 May 2024 20:07 , Roisin O'Connor

Björn Skifs opens proceedings with “Hooked on a Feeling”, after a bit of a bumpy voiceover opening from the BBC’s presenter Graham Norton. Sounded like a mic issue.

And then the flag parade, where all the finalists come out with their country’s flag. Great entrance from Estonia just now.

Kaarija has pulled out of announcing Finland’s jury scores...

Saturday 11 May 2024 19:57 , Roisin O'Connor

Finland’s 2023 runner up Kaarija has announced that he will no longer announce Finland’s jury votes.

Eurovision: Bambie Thug 'cried with team' after finding out Israel had made final

Saturday 11 May 2024 19:31 , Roisin O'Connor

Saturday 11 May 2024 19:24 , Roisin O'Connor

Ireland's Eurovision Song Contest entry Bambie Thug has accused the Israeli broadcaster, Kan, of a rule break, after the singer missed their final rehearsals.

The singer, who uses the pronouns they/them, has previously hit out at Israel's representative, Eden Golan, competing in the contest, and been outspoken about their pro-Palestine views before becoming the first Irish qualifier since 2018.

Bambie will compete in the final on Saturday.

In an Instagram story, they said: “I have raised multiple complaints to the EBU (European Broadcasting Union) regarding instances I have experienced this week.

“Earlier today they confirmed to my delegation in front of others that Kan's commentator had broken the rules of conduct during the Eurovision semi-final.

“I have been patiently waiting to hear what action is set to be taken by the EBU following this rule break. I have since seen a statement by EBU director general Noel Curran which contradicts this earlier confirmation.

“I am still waiting for an official update from the EBU. I hope to see you on the stage tonight.”

In response, a spokesperson for the Israeli broadcaster Kan told the PA news agency: “We wish everyone the best of luck tonight.”

The organisers of Eurovision said: “Bambie Thug did not perform in dress rehearsal three and the footage of their performance in dress rehearsal two was used in its place.

“They missed the dress rehearsal due to a situation that is currently being discussed with the EBU and song contest organisers.

“We hope that this will be resolved shortly and Bambie Thug will appear in the Grand Final show as planned.”

Irish broadcaster RTE has reported that the singer called on organisers to address commentary made on Israeli television before their performance in Tuesday's semi-final.

They told the broadcaster: “I'm angry with other teams breaching their rules of the EBU, and still being allowed in.

“So there's definitely a war drum sounding in my heart to push the performance even more than I have done before.”

Press Association

Does everyone really hate the UK at Eurovision? Here are the surprising stats

Saturday 11 May 2024 19:16 , Roisin O'Connor

The last time the UK won Eurovision was in 1997...

Does everyone really hate the UK at Eurovision? Here are the surprising stats

Dutch broadcaster calls Joost disqualification by Eurovision organisers ‘disproportionate'

Saturday 11 May 2024 19:00 , Roisin O'Connor

The Netherlands entry for the Eurovision Song Contest, Joost Klein, was disqualified following a “threatening movement” from the singer towards a camerawoman, a Dutch radio and television broadcaster said.

A statement from the Netherlands' Songfestival, which sends acts to the Eurovision Song Contest, on X added that AVROTROS, the Dutch radio and television broadcaster, found the “penalty very heavy and disproportionate” and said it was “very disappointed”.

On X, formerly Twitter, the statement said: “An incident occurred after last Thursday's performance. Against clearly made agreements, Joost was filmed when he had just gotten off stage and had to rush to the green room.

“At that moment, Joost repeatedly indicated that he did not want to be filmed. This wasn't respected.

“This led to a threatening movement from Joost towards the camera. Joost did not touch the camerawoman. This incident was reported, followed by an investigation by the EBU (European Broadcasting Union) and police”.

The statement said they had “consulted extensively with the EBU and proposed several solutions”, but that “nevertheless, the EBU has still decided to disqualify Joost Klein”.

It added that AVROTROS “finds the penalty very heavy and disproportionate”, saying they “stand for good manners - let there be no misunderstanding about that - but in our view, an exclusion order is not proportional to this incident”.

The statement ended saying: “We are very disappointed and upset for the millions of fans who were so excited for tonight. What Joost brought to the Netherlands and Europe shouldn't have ended this way.”

Klein, 26, entered with the song Europapa, which is a tribute to his late parents.

He was disqualified from Saturday night's grand final following a Swedish police investigation into allegations of inappropriate behaviour.

The EBU said police were investigating a complaint made by a female member of the production crew after an incident following his performance in Thursday night's semi-final.

“While the legal process takes its course, it would not be appropriate for him to continue in the contest,” it said in a statement.

“We would like to make it clear that, contrary to some media reports and social media speculation, this incident did not involve any other performer or delegation member.

“We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards inappropriate behaviour at our event and are committed to providing a safe and secure working environment for all staff at the contest.

“In light of this, Joost Klein's behaviour towards a team member is deemed in breach of contest rules.”

A follow-up statement said Dutch viewers would still be allowed to vote in the grand final and added that the Dutch jury result is still valid.

Press Association

Eurovision 2024 final subject of more chaos as French contestant calls for peace and Norway’s jury announcer resigns

Saturday 11 May 2024 18:29 , Roisin O'Connor

The Eurovision Song Contest has been plunged into further chaos after France’s delegate Slimane called for peace, while a Norwegian jury spokesperson resigned as she appeared to call out the organisers for hypocrisy.

On Saturday (11 May) during the dress rehearsals at the Malmo Arena in Sweden, French contestant Slimane stopped singing “Mon Amour” to call for peace amid the war between Hamas and Israel in the Gaza Strip.

There have been multiple calls to boycott the competition over Israel's participation with singer Eden Golan, who is due to perform her song Hurricane on Saturday evening, as large protests take place in the city centre.

Slimane told the audience: “Everybody, I just need to say something. Sorry I don't speak English very well but when I was a child I dreamed about music, I dreamed about this dream, to be a singer and to sing peace here.

“Every artist here wants to sing about love and sing about peace. We need to be united by music yes, but with love for peace. United by music yes, but with love for peace. Thank you so much, thank you Europe.”

Palestinian flags - which had been banned by the organisers the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) - were also seen in the audience.

Ahead of the grand final, Alessandra Mele posted to Instagram to say that she will no longer be the person who announces the points awarded by Norway during Eurovision.

In a video the former Eurovision contestant said: “Even though I'm thankful that I was given the opportunity to do so, I've taken the decision to withdraw. United by music - Eurovision's motto is the reason why the music unites people, brings them together.

“But right now, those words are just empty words. There is a genocide going on and I'm asking you all to please open up your eyes, open up your heart, let love lead you to the truth.

“It's right in front of you. Free Palestine.”

The grand final will now have 25 performers rather than 26 after Dutch act Joost Klein was disqualified following a Swedish police investigation into allegations of inappropriate behaviour.

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has been approached for comment.

Olly Alexander speaks out: ‘What a road it has been'

Saturday 11 May 2024 18:12 , Roisin O'Connor

The UK’s delegate Olly Alexander has shared a somewhat muted video from his hotel room ahead of the final tonight. To be honest, who can blame him - it’s sounding as though the show is being thrown into further chaos after France’s entry Slimane called for “peace” (will the EBU see this as a “political” statement, I wonder?) and a Nowegian jury spokesperson resigned at the 11th hour, currently no confirmation as to why.

“We’re here, and last night’s jury performance went really well, so, let’s do this,” Alexander says in his video. “What more can I say apart from... vote for me. And... I love you all”

And no comment on his fellow delegate Joost being disqualified. Hmm.

Why is Israel in the Eurovision Song Contest final?

Saturday 11 May 2024 14:31 , Roisin O'Connor

Israel will compete in this year’s Eurovision Song Contest, despite calls for the country to be banned from participating due to its ongoing war on Gaza.

Eden Golan is representing Israel with the track “Hurricane”, which was reworked from original entry “October Rain” after it was alleged to include references to the 7 October attacks by Hamas, therefore breaching the European Broadcasting Union’s (EBU) rules over political songs.

The Israel-born Golan, who grew up in Russia, told ITV News this week that she could not have asked “for a better year to be representing my country”.

She has qualified to compete in the grand final tonight (Saturday 11 May), where she will be up against favourites including Switzerland’s Nemo with “The Code”, and the Netherlands’ Joost with “Europapa”.

Protests over Israel’s participation are underway in Malmö, Sweden, which is hosting this year’s contest following Swedish contestant Loreen’s win with “Tattoo” in 2023.

Why is Israel in the Eurovision Song Contest final?

Eurovision 2024 favourites: Our Top 10, from Croatia’s Baby Lasagna to Ireland’s Bambie Thug

Saturday 11 May 2024 11:31 , Roisin O'Connor

The Eurovision Song Contest 2024 is underway, with all qualifying countries now revealed and preparing to perform in tonight’s final.

Eurovision is typically known for its uplifting atmosphere, as fans celebrate each country’s musical talents along with plenty of dramatic staging, zany costumes and tremendous vocal performances.

Here are our favourites for the 2024 contest:

Who’s going to win Eurovision 2024? Our top 10 favourites

Eurovision’s Bambie Thug says pro-Palestine protests 'putting a cloud above everyone'

Saturday 11 May 2024 11:01 , Roisin O'Connor

Meet Baby Lasagna, the maverick singer representing Croatia in the Eurovision 2024 final

Saturday 11 May 2024 10:31 , Roisin O'Connor

Whatever the outcome for Croatia’s 2024 entry Baby Lasagna at Saturday’s final, the singer will go down in Eurovision history as the contestant with one of the best names.

Singer-songwriter Marko Purišić, 28, who is from Umag, Croatia, performs under the pseudonym Baby Lasagna – the name of a wider creative project he is pursuing following the launch of his solo career in 2023.

His song for this year’s competition, “Rim Tim Tagi Dim”, is a rock-techno-inflected track about economic migration, and its catchiness and epic staging has already seen fans crown him as one of this year’s favourite contestants.

Meet Baby Lasagna, the maverick singer representing Croatia in the Eurovision final

Katie Price was the Eurovision winner that got away

Saturday 11 May 2024 09:08 , Roisin O'Connor

The glamour model was seven months pregnant and dressed in a pink rubber catsuit when she placed second in a public vote to represent the UK in 2005. She’s since said she was left ‘humiliated’ by the experience, but her performance is secretly sort of brilliant, writes Adam White

Katie Price was the Eurovision winner that got away