Vienna Calling: BBC Sets the Stage for 70th Anniversary Eurovision Song Contest
The broadcasts will pay tribute to the contest’s long history, starting with a “70 Years of Love” film during the first Semi-Final.
RMN Stars Music Desk
New Delhi | May 1, 2026
The BBC has officially launched its extensive coverage plans for the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest, as the world’s largest music competition travels to Vienna, Austria, for its historic 70th edition. Following host nation Austria’s victory in 2025, the contest will be centered at the Wiener Stadthalle arena, marking 11 years since the city last hosted the event.
The UK Entry: “Eins, Zwei, Drei”
Representing the United Kingdom this year is LOOK MUM NO COMPUTER, who will perform the anthemic track “Eins, Zwei, Drei”. As one of the “Big Four” countries, the UK is guaranteed a place in the Grand Final on Saturday, 16 May. However, fans will get their first glimpse of the UK’s staging during the second Semi-Final on Thursday, 14 May, where UK viewers will also be eligible to vote for their favorite acts.
A Star-Studded Lineup and Expert Commentary
The BBC is deploying a veteran team of presenters across TV, radio, and digital platforms. Graham Norton returns as the “master of ceremonies” for the Grand Final on BBC One and iPlayer. The Semi-Finals (12 and 14 May) will be guided by Eurovision aficionado Rylan and newcomer Angela Scanlon.
On BBC Radio 2, newly announced Breakfast Show host Sara Cox will lead the live coverage from Vienna. Adding to the digital experience, RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star Tia Kofi will serve as the roving reporter, bringing fans “the tea” from backstage and the Turquoise Carpet.
Global Icons Join the Competition
The 70th anniversary has attracted high-profile talent from across the globe. Notable competitors this year include:
- Boy George, performing for San Marino alongside SENHIT.
- Global superstar Delta Goodrem, representing Australia.
- World-renowned violinist Linda Lampenius and singer Pete Parkkonen for Finland.
- DARA, marking Bulgaria’s return to the contest after a three-year absence.
Innovations in Voting and Engagement
A major change this year sees UK voting moving exclusively online. Viewers can cast up to 10 votes via the official Eurovision website (esc.vote) or the contest’s official app for a fee of 15p per vote.
To engage younger audiences, the BBC is bringing back “My Eurovision Party” on Roblox, a virtual experience where fans can explore a digital Eurovision stage and meet Roblox versions of LOOK MUM NO COMPUTER and Graham Norton.
Celebrating 70 Years of Music
The broadcasts will pay tribute to the contest’s long history, starting with a “70 Years of Love” film during the first Semi-Final. The Grand Final will feature a “Eurovision All Stars” interval act performing iconic songs from the competition’s seven-decade legacy.
“Eurovision is one of the most popular events of the year… it brings the nation together for an unmissable night of joy,” said Kalpna Patel-Knight, the BBC’s Head of Entertainment. The Grand Final broadcast begins at 8:00 PM on Saturday, 16 May across BBC One, iPlayer, Radio 2, and BBC Sounds.
