Eurovision 2025 semi-finals live: Favourites Sweden and Estonia sail through to the grand final

For the first time since 2022. And they didn’t think they’d do it, bless them. As mentioned, I reckon that could be a favourite in the final.

Brilliant for them, joining Norway who have also been voted through.

Dear Eurovision family and contestants,

I’d love nothing more than to be with you in Basel right now. Switzerland will forever hold a special place in my heart. It’s a country that believed in me and gave me the chance to be part of something so extraordinary.

Winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 1988 was a life-changing moment for me, and I’m so thankful for everyone who supported me. Now, 37 years later, it’s so beautiful and emotional to see Switzerland hosting this event once more. To the people of Switzerland, thank you for your love. This night is yours, and I hope you feel as proud as I do.

Hazel Brugger and Sandra Struder are absolutely killing it as hosts! In a very ‘Frozen’ or Disney-style musical skit they’re running through all the things Switzerland invented. Including the garlic press, cellophane, and processed cheese.

Because we’re not performing tonight – you can vote in the second semi-final lads. But don’t try and vote tonight, because it won’t be counted.

An amusing slip-up from Scott Mills, announcing Marko as the first gay person in Croatia… WAIT. So he’s the first “openly gay” person from Croatia to represent the country at Eurovision, apparently. He’s singing “Poison Cake”, which might be weird enough to get through to the final, but I’m not convinced, personally.