The Eurovision Song Contest is back, with acts from around the world competing for victory in Vienna. Last year, Austria's JJ won with 'Wasted Love,' so the Wiener Stadthalle hosts this year's event, with Cosmó representing the host country with 'Tanzschein.'
Competition Structure
Thirty-five countries will participate in the semifinals, with 25 advancing to the grand final on Saturday, 16 May. The United Kingdom is represented by YouTube star LookMumNoComputer performing 'Eins, Zwei, Drei,' following recent entrants like Sam Ryder, Mae Muller, Olly Alexander, and Remember Monday.
Current Favourites
Finland, with odds of 5/4, is the frontrunner. Violinist Linda Lampenius and singer-songwriter Pete Parkkonen will perform 'Liekinheitin.' The duo described the song as having a deep, sad story about emotional distance and addiction to relationships. Close behind is Greece at 6/1, represented by Akylas with 'Ferto.' Finland has competed 58 times since 1961, finishing last 11 times and winning once in 2006 with Lordi's 'Hard Rock Hallelujah.' Greece won in 2005 with Helena Paparizou's 'My Number One.'
UK Prospects
The UK's odds range from 33/1 to 250/1, suggesting a low placement. LookMumNoComputer's entry has not generated strong betting confidence.
Broadcast Schedule
Semifinals air on Tuesday, 12 May, and Thursday, 14 May, at 9pm on BBC One, hosted by Rylan Clark and Angela Scanlon. Radio coverage includes Sara Cox on Wednesday from 4pm to 7pm. On Friday, Sophie Ellis-Bextor hosts Eurovision Kitchen Disco on BBC Radio 2 from 9pm to 11pm, and returns Saturday at 1pm for 'Your Ultimate Eurovision Superstar!' Dermot O'Leary will precede her from 8am to 10am on Radio 2. The grand final begins at 8pm on Saturday, 16 May, with Graham Norton providing commentary on BBC One. International viewers can stream via the official YouTube channel, but UK coverage is exclusive to BBC One.
