Fans from around the world have gathered in Basel, Switzerland to support their favorite performers competing in the 69th Eurovision Song Contest. The grand final features 26 performances, including the host country and the Big Five nations, which enter automatically due to financial contributions.
This year’s favorites include Sweden, with its seven-time winning record, as well as Austria and the Netherlands. Other standout entries include Iceland’s energetic “Róa” and Finland’s dramatic “Ich Komme.” The contest’s winner will be decided by a mix of votes from national juries and viewers at home.
Controversies have surrounded Israel’s participation, with some protests due to its ongoing conflict in Gaza. The European Broadcasting Union has also faced criticism over lyrics deemed unacceptable, such as Malta’s entry featuring a potentially vulgar word.
However, a potential surprise appearance could be in store – the award-winning artist Céline Dion, who won the contest 20 years ago and has expressed her desire to return. Her health is currently the top priority, according to Eurovision spokesperson Sibylle Tornay.
Source: https://www.nbcnews.com/world/europe/eurovision-final-2025-how-watch-time-celine-dion-odds-channel-stream-rcna207119