Special Event: Eurovision 2024 - The Grand Final

May 11, 2024 9:41 AM

Good evening, Europe! Good morning, Australia! It’s the big day! The Grand Final of the Eurovision Song Contest 2024 is today, May 11th, at 21:00 CEST/3:00 PM EDT. Come on in to discuss the highs, the lows, and the grand spectacle that can only be Eurovision.

How to Watch Live:

Viewers outside of the United States can watch the official stream of the Grand Final on the Eurovision YouTube Channel.

For those of us unlucky enough to be geoblocked from the official stream, r/Eurovision has a comprehensive How to Watch guide. My go-to method for watching these days is through the Swedish National Broadcaster (SVT)’s official stream. Viewers in the United States with a Peacock subscription can use NBC’s streaming service to watch.

===============
RUNNING ORDER:
===============
1. Sweden: Marcus & Martinus - "Unforgettable"
2. Ukraine: Alyona Alyona and Jerry Heil - "Teresa & Maria"
3. Germany: Isaak - "Always on the Run"
4. Luxembourg: Tali - "Fighter"
5. Netherlands: Joost Klein - "Europapa" (DISQUALIFIED)*
6. Israel: Eden Golan - "Hurricane"
7. Lithuania: Silvester Belt - "Luktelk"
8. Spain: Nebulossa - "Zorra"
9. Estonia: 5miinust and Puuluup - "(Nendest) narkootikumidest ei tea me (küll) midagi"
10. Ireland: Bambie Thug - "Doomsday Blue"
11. Latvia: Dons - "Hollow"
12. Greece: Marina Satti - "Zari"
13. United Kingdom: Olly Alexander - "Dizzy"
14. Norway: Gåte - "Ulveham"
15. Italy: Angelina Mango - "La noia"
16. Serbia: Teya Dora - "Ramonda"
17. Finland: Windows95man - "No Rules!"
18. Portugal: Iolanda - "Grito"
19. Armenia: Ladaniva - "Jako"
20. Cyprus: Silia Kapsis - "Liar"
21. Switzerland: Nemo - "The Code"
22. Slovenia: Raiven "Veronika"
23. Croatia: Baby Lasagna - "Rim Tim Tagi Dim"
24. Georgia: Nutsa Buzaladze - "Firefighter"
25. France: Slimane - "Mon amour"
26. Austria: Kaleen - "We Will Rave"

*Why has the Dutch entry been disqualified? The Dutch broadcaster, AVROTROS, has issued the following statement.

posted by PearlRose (289 comments total)

Okay, now that the neutral just the facts post is up, whew! A tornado went through my side of town Friday morning, and I’ve been without power for about 36 hours now. (I’m totally fine! No damage, and I have a generator, so it’s not that horrible, really.)

So much has happened in the last day or so with Eurovision, and I am so very tired.
posted by PearlRose at 9:44 AM on May 11 [5 favorites]

Glad to hear you're safe, PearlRose! Just made some whipped cream with leftover heavy cream to go with the kladdkaka. As for the cake itself, here it is! Seems to have turned out pretty well.

Sad about Joost and this whole mess. No matter what happens today, let's hope it's entertaining.
posted by May Kasahara at 9:57 AM on May 11 [4 favorites]

Thanks for starting this, and glad to hear that you're OK.
posted by rjs at 11:17 AM on May 11

Anyone know how the performance order is determined?
posted by sammyo at 11:24 AM on May 11

Wikipedia says: The running orders are decided with the competing songs' musical quality, stage performance, prop and lighting set-up, and other production considerations taken into account.
posted by sammyo at 11:26 AM on May 11

I'm home to watch the drama, can't wait to see what else explodes. How many countries will still participate? Is Israel causing drama (see Bambie Thug's complaints)? Will Finland be forced to award Israel points when so far two people have dropped out, refusing to do so?

Rooting for No Rules and Rim Tim Tagi Dim at this point, The Code and Doomsday Blue after that.
posted by jenfullmoon at 11:53 AM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Glad to hear you're okay and thank you for starting this thread, PearlRose!
posted by needled at 12:03 PM on May 11

It's not off to an auspicious start in the UK...Graham Norton's audio seemed to cut out for a bit.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 12:03 PM on May 11

I have kept myself pure and free from hearing any of the songs. Till now.
posted by biffa at 12:03 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Still no power at my house, so I ducked to the bougie grocery store that has wifi and cafe seating. It is one of the few things with power, so it's quite busy.

I'll be watching this with the spouse whenver we get power back so I'm sure I'll catch up on the parade of nations soon enough. Watching on the SVT app on my phone, like the weirdo superfan that I am.
posted by PearlRose at 12:08 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

That UK flag is HUGE
posted by needled at 12:08 PM on May 11

Nemo, the Swiss entry, with the enby flag! Continue to press those buttons.
posted by PearlRose at 12:11 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Oh, the hosts' dresses are lovely today.
posted by May Kasahara at 12:13 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

I imagine it's difficult to have to host right now and be perky and happy like everything's normal. So far they are doing a good job of that, though. Wonder if they are just gonna ignore the Netherlands entirely and not explain they're missing?
posted by jenfullmoon at 12:15 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Petra, Malin, and SVT have been stone cold professionals throughout all this mess. I wonder if the Finnish broadcaster is breathing a sigh of relief right now?

I think SVT has done a great job hosting, Petra is beloved for a reason. They're really doing their best and are a bright spot in... everything, especially over the last day or so.
posted by PearlRose at 12:17 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

Hello again, adorable twins from Norway that are here because they finally manged to win the fancy Swedish music contest that happens to also let the winner go to Eurovision.

My app has somehow managed to turn on the English subtitles, and I can kind of understand the lyrics now? (I didn't realize there were lyrics other than "unforgettable".)
posted by PearlRose at 12:21 PM on May 11

Boy band vibes!
posted by jenfullmoon at 12:21 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Ukraine is putting that Death Slot curse to the test.

Everything looks so pretty.
posted by PearlRose at 12:25 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

I didn't notice the chainmail on the Ukrainian rapper last time. Guess it fits with the singer's shoulder armor.
posted by May Kasahara at 12:25 PM on May 11

Feeling a bit off watching this year, but I've been watching since I was like 8 and can't really not watch when it's taking place home in Sweden. I am happy to see the Swedish entry turn out well today. The stage show is so good. Heja Markus & Martinus!

I like the Ukraine entry, pretty song.
posted by gemmy at 12:26 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

I'm liking Always On The Run.
SOOOOOOOOOO MUCH FIRE IN THESE SHOWS.
posted by jenfullmoon at 12:28 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Germany's performance is much stronger now than it was in the Semis. Maybe because they're actually competing now?
posted by May Kasahara at 12:30 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Germany's dumpster fire staging aged poorly this week.

He is trying so hard, and I think I like the song, it makes me feel things. But I don't want to feel these feelings during Eurovision. So, kinda uncomfortable and almost too good for here. But his vocals are A+.
posted by PearlRose at 12:30 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

I agree about the improved German performance today. I wasn't feeling the German performance until today.
posted by needled at 12:31 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

I want to see Marcus & Martinus performing their song in one of the Korean year-end music award shows. They'd fit right in!
posted by needled at 12:32 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

Ooh, the jaguars are coool. And the background beat is fun.
posted by gemmy at 12:33 PM on May 11

I think there are a loooooot of Swedish producers that contribute to Kpop's particular sound. The comparision doesn't surprise me at all! They're a perfect match.
posted by PearlRose at 12:34 PM on May 11

Not liking the German entry's start but improves. First two didn't really hit the spot.

Petra is very sharp, I'm liking her.

Norton is on form so far.
posted by biffa at 12:34 PM on May 11

Welcome back, Luxembourg, what a year you've chosen to return to!

I like the song! But the staging feels like a strange fit. It's a sassy dance number with French elements, and the staging... feels busy and almost too sleek and modern.
posted by PearlRose at 12:34 PM on May 11

Luxembourg's performance shows that they really get Eurovision, despite the long absence.
posted by May Kasahara at 12:34 PM on May 11

Do I hear booing? (Israel)
posted by needled at 12:36 PM on May 11

I didn't even notice the German performance previously. He was.... on fire?

Nope, they didn't mention the missing Netherlands whatsoever and here's Israel, sigh.
posted by jenfullmoon at 12:36 PM on May 11

I am pleased with the way the Swedish broadcast explained what happened with the Netherlands and why. Quick explainer was pretty well done IMO.

Not sure I'm super into this Israeli song, this is the first time I've heard it. She's OK, but :shrug: meh.
posted by gemmy at 12:38 PM on May 11

Yes, there is a lot of booing being drowned out by a cheering sound played over it. It sounds really different from the actual cheers I heard earlier, and I also think they were a little slow to apply the overlay sound.
posted by PearlRose at 12:38 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Graham Norton mentioned the Netherlands a couple of times.
posted by antiwiggle at 12:38 PM on May 11

Lithuania is one of my favorite countries currently competing in Eurovision right now. They get it.
posted by PearlRose at 12:39 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Oh, they must have explained that in the Swedish bits because I didn't notice it. Sigh. Or possibly when my phone rang.
posted by jenfullmoon at 12:40 PM on May 11

Oh, I love this actually. Nice, Lithuania!
posted by gemmy at 12:41 PM on May 11

Unfiltered crowd noise from Israel's performance.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 12:41 PM on May 11 [8 favorites]

The Lithuanian song still makes me think of Kylie Minogue.
posted by needled at 12:42 PM on May 11

Lithuania looks like he is dancing with some younger boys he allowed into his gang.
posted by biffa at 12:43 PM on May 11

Fantastic job, Lithuania. Staging almost as good as Sweden's, with a better song.
posted by May Kasahara at 12:44 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

And from after Israel's performance.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 12:44 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

A nice short video from the Wall Street Journal on Eurovision stage changes - they have 50 seconds to switch out stages between the acts!
https://youtu.be/23re8TbGg7k?si=qJDPZ3ykNpHr2vV5
posted by needled at 12:45 PM on May 11 [5 favorites]

I'm balling at 92 year old Karin Falck appearing. Such a lovely woman.
posted by gemmy at 12:46 PM on May 11 [5 favorites]

I really hope Lithuania wins Eurovision at some point in the next five years or so. They keep sending such interesting songs, but they're also doing it their way. It never quite feels like they're jumping on trends.

Okay, Spain time, let's go. I love the vibe of this one so much.
posted by PearlRose at 12:47 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Welcome back to the 80s! Ha, sweet!
posted by gemmy at 12:48 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

The blondes of Nebulossa gave me Barbie and "Crispin Glover at the end of Back to the Future" vibes in those intro bits.
posted by jenfullmoon at 12:48 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

I love Nebulossa so much. She's up there in her 50's, making the crowd eat out of her hands, and her husband of 20+ years is up there on keytaur, being supportive as can be.

Plus, the song's really clever and super catchy.
posted by PearlRose at 12:49 PM on May 11 [4 favorites]

Keytar!
posted by biffa at 12:50 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

AND THEN THERE'S THE DIAPERS AND BUTTCHEEKS. I heard someone say this song is about giving no fucks?
posted by jenfullmoon at 12:50 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

I love this, and it seems like the audience does too.
posted by gemmy at 12:50 PM on May 11

NEBULOSSA I WANT A KISS TOO
posted by May Kasahara at 12:51 PM on May 11

I'd say this is my favourite so far. Which history tells us means they have no chance.
posted by biffa at 12:52 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Estonia! I appreciate how this feels different from the usual Eurovision fare.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 12:52 PM on May 11

"Zorra" in Spanish means vixen and that's the official, family-friendly translation, but it's mostly used to call a woman loose, easy, or "bitchy". Whereas Zorro has a suave and debonair connotation (remember the Zorro movies)?

So she's reclaming the word, basically saying, you think I'm the worst for wearing short skirts and going out dancing? Then call the the poster child for vixens everywhere, because I don't regret what I've done.
posted by PearlRose at 12:53 PM on May 11 [6 favorites]

Enjoying the odd musical instruments and banger tune, even if from what I've read nobody can actually play instruments on stage.
posted by jenfullmoon at 12:53 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

This is the funnest one so far. Yay Estonia!
posted by gemmy at 12:54 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Now the dancing is reminding me of Psy/Gangnam Style.
posted by jenfullmoon at 12:55 PM on May 11

Estonia doesn't mimic playing their instruments very well, but I really love their earnest vibe. They know they're not going to win, but they're going to make sure we all have a great time tonight.
posted by PearlRose at 12:55 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Yeah, "zorra" translates halfway between "bitch" and "slut". I'm only watching this in case it implodes but TBF the song was better than I expected.
posted by sukeban at 12:55 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

I definitely had a good time with Estonia, so it worked.
posted by May Kasahara at 12:56 PM on May 11

jenfullmoon, official English lyrics for "Zorra"

There's a line that really stands out for me, "Can't be bothered to change for you"
posted by needled at 12:56 PM on May 11 [5 favorites]

I love Estonia putting on such a fun show without setting anything on fire.
posted by needled at 12:57 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

I still don't like Ireland's song very much (the screaming hurts my ears), but they had a vision and they saw it through. The sheer Art on display is tremendous.
posted by PearlRose at 12:57 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

I want to get Ireland's backup dancer signed up to play Caliban.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 12:58 PM on May 11

I'm conflicted on Doomsday Blue because I love the non-screamy bits and hate the screaming bits. It's beautiful and then...not.
posted by jenfullmoon at 12:59 PM on May 11

How on earth did this get through from conservative Ireland? Much love for going for it without giving an efff, this goes HARD.
posted by gemmy at 12:59 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Wow, that was a lovely visual transition to go with the tonal change for Ireland.
posted by biffa at 12:59 PM on May 11

I think once Sweden tied Ireland for the most number of Eurovision wins, it made Ireland realize it actually needed to try a bit for once.
posted by PearlRose at 1:00 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Latvia's got a lovely voice, but I don't see this doing very well.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 1:01 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

Is this the first time all the Baltic nations are in the Eurovision final?
posted by needled at 1:01 PM on May 11

Bambie's song is definitely very unique and yet still very Irish. Not my favorite but I respect it.
posted by May Kasahara at 1:01 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Latvia was ranked dead last in the odds, and it qualified.

He's a great singer, and the staging kinda works? I still don't know how I feel about feeling refreshed by a Sad Boy Ballad instead of bored by it.
posted by PearlRose at 1:02 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

Latvia looks like he escaped from a stargate episode.
posted by biffa at 1:02 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

"Hollow" is another song I'm more into now than I was previously.
posted by jenfullmoon at 1:03 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

I think in a previous year, Latvia would've been a serious contender. Great singer and good song, but it doesn't stand a chance.
posted by May Kasahara at 1:03 PM on May 11

A friend said "I wonder what bonuses his chest plate has, +1 at least" and it made me lol. He's a good singer, yea, but the song is kinda boring.
posted by gemmy at 1:03 PM on May 11 [4 favorites]

I just realised he is stood in front of a stargate.
posted by biffa at 1:04 PM on May 11

I think the postcards before the songs have been a bit crap this year.
posted by biffa at 1:05 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

Greece's Jiffy-Pop skirt/diaper is really distracting.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 1:06 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

I really wish Greece's skirt was a pair of parachute pants or something it's so distracting.

It's such a fun number! Probably my favorite Greek entry in oh, five years? Maybe longer. The energy is so good.

Oh, right. I'd almost forgotten that Lying on the Floor Dramatically is A Trend this year.
posted by PearlRose at 1:07 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

I like the colorful backgrounds in this one.
posted by jenfullmoon at 1:07 PM on May 11

Singing upside down should be the new singing lying down.

Go Olly!
posted by May Kasahara at 1:09 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

The UK entry is fine, but the staging is doing a lot of heavy lifting.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 1:10 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

The staging for Olly is really next level. I really like him, and the song will do well even if he doesn't win, so that's good.
posted by gemmy at 1:11 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Dizzy: I am so very confused. What are the audience seeing?
posted by freya_lamb at 1:11 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

The acrobatic choreo is really hurting the vocals. I guess I'm glad that the UK is trying again, but let him sing, please.
posted by PearlRose at 1:11 PM on May 11

The ultimate dilemma: singing plus dancing. I'm not sure why "dizzy from your kisses" was paired with boxing and a box, but whatever, I suppose.
posted by jenfullmoon at 1:12 PM on May 11

Vocals are too lightweight for me but agree staging is great.
posted by biffa at 1:12 PM on May 11

@freya_lamb - for both the Swedish and UK entries, the audience in the arena saw a big square box from what I understand.
posted by PearlRose at 1:13 PM on May 11

Was that taped or some insanely big set?
posted by sammyo at 1:13 PM on May 11

OMG, they actually referred to Loreen's staging as a panini grill. It's not just us!
posted by May Kasahara at 1:14 PM on May 11 [5 favorites]

Norway up next. I seem to remember that I really liked this one in the semifinals.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 1:14 PM on May 11

A really big set. I think that's why we have this ad break here after the UK entry. Sometimes songs are placed in the order depending on their set pieces.
posted by PearlRose at 1:15 PM on May 11

Norway!

The coven assembles.
posted by PearlRose at 1:16 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

What is the violin with a keyboard, so cool!
posted by sammyo at 1:18 PM on May 11

I love kulning! First Jon Henrik in the Swedish qualifiers did joyks a few times, and now kulning. So cool to hear traditional things like that.
posted by gemmy at 1:19 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

This seems more Hurricane than "Hurricane."
posted by jenfullmoon at 1:19 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

This seems to be the year of Spooky Witchy Things. I'm here for it.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 1:20 PM on May 11 [6 favorites]

Norway: Wowsers! That staging was amazeballs. Yes please!
posted by freya_lamb at 1:20 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Sammyo, it's a Nyckelharpa I think.
posted by gemmy at 1:20 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

The violin keyboard thing is a Nyckelharpa, a traditional Swedish instrument.
posted by PearlRose at 1:21 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Norway didn't hold my attention. I think Italy is where I most often disagree with the voters. Apparently they have an excellent recent record.
posted by biffa at 1:22 PM on May 11

Italy changed her costume from whatever she weas wearing in the semifinal. I like this outfit so much better.
posted by PearlRose at 1:22 PM on May 11

Oh good Italy changed outfits from the semifinals. Now the performers are standing out instead of being lost in the stage design.
posted by needled at 1:23 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Beautiful rose background here.
posted by jenfullmoon at 1:23 PM on May 11

Aww, I really liked Italy's semifinal outfits. Still think it's a weak entry for them overall, though.
posted by May Kasahara at 1:24 PM on May 11

needled - I was complaining during her whole set on Thursday that she was too pretty to get lost in the set and give me a headache. It looks so much nicer and more cohesive.
posted by PearlRose at 1:25 PM on May 11

The semifinal outfit by itself was fine, and the semifinal background by itself was interesting, but the two together ended up engulfing the performers, making them barely visible. I think they made the right choice for the final performance.
posted by needled at 1:26 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Nearly all of the spooky witchy ballads qualified for the final this year. Serbia's is probably my least favorite of them, but it's still really good? There is so much emotion here.
posted by PearlRose at 1:27 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Honestly, Molitva (when Serbia won in like 2007?) was a great song well sung. This is well sung but it's not quite as strong as that one.
posted by gemmy at 1:28 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

I WANT SOMETHING WEIRD TO WIN.
posted by jenfullmoon at 1:30 PM on May 11 [4 favorites]

Finland's is very much a gimmick act, but I enjoy it anyway.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 1:30 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

Finland's staging and camerawork is actually quite clever.

Otherwise, it does feel like the most obvious joke entry this year.
posted by PearlRose at 1:30 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Oh, wait, did I just see no pants?!?!
posted by jenfullmoon at 1:30 PM on May 11

Oh Finland, I love you!
posted by gemmy at 1:30 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

WHAT IS THE AUDIENCE SEEING RIGHT NOW
posted by jenfullmoon at 1:31 PM on May 11

NO RULES PANTS
posted by May Kasahara at 1:31 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

I love Finland's dancers so much.
posted by needled at 1:32 PM on May 11

Finland does the midact costume change by putting on more clothes. A true inversion.
posted by PearlRose at 1:32 PM on May 11 [10 favorites]

He had on pants in the semifinals, right....???? This is new?!

NO PANTS
posted by jenfullmoon at 1:32 PM on May 11

Well it's in my top 3.
posted by biffa at 1:33 PM on May 11

He was wearing a nude thong in the semis, was he not tonight?
posted by PearlRose at 1:33 PM on May 11

He had on pants in the semifinals, right....????

He did not...but there was a flesh-colored thong in place, at least.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 1:34 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

I think they did a better job hiding the thong this time.
posted by May Kasahara at 1:34 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

Graham said he had a flesh coloured patch
posted by biffa at 1:34 PM on May 11

Haha if you thought there was (implied) nudity with Finland, wait till you see Slovenia.
posted by needled at 1:36 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

Portugal has a lovely, bittersweet song, but they went for a dramatic white effect.
posted by PearlRose at 1:36 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

The staging was my favorite part of Portugal.
posted by May Kasahara at 1:38 PM on May 11

I might have a tiny crush on Armenia's lead singer now. She looks really energetic and fun.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 1:39 PM on May 11 [4 favorites]

The Armenian singer is so cute I love her so much and she's running around wearing sensible shoes.
posted by needled at 1:39 PM on May 11 [5 favorites]

Loved Portugal. Felt very calm and restrained and still emotional. There are some absolutely killer vocals tonight. The audio techs are doing some fantastic work.
posted by freya_lamb at 1:39 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Armenia! Such a great vibe. The energy is amazing, and we require jaunty ethnic tunes for Eurovision!
posted by PearlRose at 1:40 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

I liked Armenia a lot, really fun.
posted by gemmy at 1:41 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Hard agree on Armenia - and that staging was gorgeous!
posted by freya_lamb at 1:41 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Cyprus sounds a lot better today than she did in the semi. It's still such a safe entry, though.
posted by PearlRose at 1:43 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Cyprus makes me think of being in a high-impact aerobics class. Well, except for the dudes taking their shirts off.
posted by needled at 1:44 PM on May 11

Switzerland really, really, really wants to win Eurovision.
posted by PearlRose at 1:45 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Oh, Switzerland. This is another one where the set is doing a lot of work.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 1:45 PM on May 11

Swiss Jamiroquai, I believe in you!
posted by May Kasahara at 1:46 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Clever staging again. I like this though, it's fun. Good luck, Nemo!
posted by gemmy at 1:47 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

From high-impact aerobics to balance board workout, it's the Eurovision fitness plan!
posted by needled at 1:48 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

The Code is about being true to yourself in a world that wants you to fit into one slot or another. Nemo is enby, and they've talked a lot about how they're grateful to be sharing the honor of being the first enby singer at Eurovision this year along with Bambie Thug from Ireland.

It's not the best song, but the Swiss know how to put together a full package. Nemo is also charming as heck.
posted by PearlRose at 1:48 PM on May 11 [7 favorites]

Loving this "quick change dress" segue.
posted by jenfullmoon at 1:50 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

I thought Switzerland was pretty good. A sort of James Bond vibe at one point?
posted by biffa at 1:52 PM on May 11

Oh I loved that!! Go Nemo. Amazing vocals and such a charismatic performance.

The kids are absolutely bringing it. Can you imagine a double headline show with him and Bambie Thug...!
posted by freya_lamb at 1:52 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

Swedish TV said that the two trends this year is "naked" and "witches" which is so true.
posted by gemmy at 1:55 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

Slovenia's song is about Veronika of Desenice, who was accused of being a witch by her father-in-law in 1425. He didn't approve of Veronika's marriage to his son.
posted by PearlRose at 1:56 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Slovenia has hit both trends in her staging, but I still really like the song. The chorus is quite catchy!
posted by PearlRose at 1:57 PM on May 11

Oh, here we go. Croatia has understood the assignment.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 1:57 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

Oh, interesting!
posted by rjs at 1:57 PM on May 11

Baby Lasagna time!
posted by needled at 1:57 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Slovenia is going to be annoyed when she watches that back and her bra and pants show through.
posted by biffa at 1:58 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

EUROVISION 2025 ZAGREB LET'S GOOO
posted by May Kasahara at 1:58 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Croatia, thank you for giving us Peak Eurovision.
posted by PearlRose at 1:58 PM on May 11 [6 favorites]

Gives me Into The Woods/Jack vibes, but much cooler.
posted by jenfullmoon at 1:58 PM on May 11

Oh this is so fun! Go Baby Lasagna!
posted by gemmy at 1:59 PM on May 11

meow cat please meow back
posted by needled at 2:00 PM on May 11 [5 favorites]

Croatia! Save us!

That was everything I ever wanted in an Eurovision package and then some.
posted by PearlRose at 2:02 PM on May 11 [5 favorites]

Energetic! Liked Rim Tim etc apart from the repeated line. Can see that winning.
posted by biffa at 2:03 PM on May 11

Georgia really wants us to know that they're really into Eurovision and they're super happy they made it to the Final after a really long absence.
posted by PearlRose at 2:03 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Georgia has some nice dancers.
posted by needled at 2:03 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Georgia is meh. 50 other eurovision songs in a blender.
posted by biffa at 2:05 PM on May 11 [5 favorites]

Her voice was giving out at the end. Agree it was very generic song-wise.
posted by needled at 2:06 PM on May 11

(observing the boycott, but following this thread closely for snark, gossip and flabbergast)
posted by Pallas Athena at 2:07 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

France continues to be French, but with extra good vocals. They know where they're getting points from.
posted by PearlRose at 2:07 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

I love France's song and singer but the staging is kinda meh.
posted by May Kasahara at 2:08 PM on May 11

He got up much quicker tonight, reads mifi?
posted by sammyo at 2:09 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

France is wearing a full body suit made from the mesh they make NHS underpants from.
posted by biffa at 2:09 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

The staging is meant to be as simple as possible as not to distract from the powerhouse vocals. It's kind of pandering and not my jam, mostly. That acapella part still gets me, though.
posted by PearlRose at 2:11 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Lamest ABBA joke ever.
posted by sammyo at 2:11 PM on May 11

Brighton interlude was funny.
posted by biffa at 2:11 PM on May 11

That Abba joke was something that happened. Not sure why or how, but it did...

Austria? Not sure about this. Kind of generic techno?
posted by gemmy at 2:13 PM on May 11

Austria! So, the singer is a dancer primarily. She's done a lot of behind the scenes work for in previous Eurovisions for Austrian delegations.

Her vocals are ...still not it.
posted by PearlRose at 2:13 PM on May 11

It made me miss Brighton a bit, even though the place has the world's saddest beach.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 2:13 PM on May 11

As a Brit, I rather liked the Brighton bit. Very dry British humour there. Good job, Swedes.
posted by May Kasahara at 2:13 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Austria: there should be no place in eurovision in the 21st century for dum de dum dum dum.
posted by biffa at 2:14 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Kaleen's dancers are channeling Rain's stage outfits circa 2010.
posted by needled at 2:14 PM on May 11

As for Austria, it's fine? The 90s are definitely back.
posted by May Kasahara at 2:14 PM on May 11

Now we settle in for several hours of painful interval acts before the votes are revealed.

I wonder if the vote reveal sequence will go any faster now that several spokespersons have cancelled?
posted by PearlRose at 2:16 PM on May 11

Every year I pity the small army of stagehands who do the set changes and the techs who set up the voting infrastructure.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 2:17 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

Top 8:

1. Spain
1. Croatia (most of my votes will be going here)
1. Switzerland

2. Sweden
2. Ukraine
2. Lithuania
2. UK
2. France
posted by May Kasahara at 2:17 PM on May 11

Alright. Now I'm on an Abba avatar interlude act watch, I guess.
posted by gemmy at 2:17 PM on May 11

Finland
Croatia
Ireland
Lithuania
Switzerland
posted by Klipspringer at 2:20 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Gosh that's the lot!

I like Croatia, Switzerland, Spain. I wouldn't be offended if Armenia did well.

I can't bring myself to go Estonia or Finland really despite some qualities.
posted by biffa at 2:22 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

I am Team Croatia all the way, but I would also accept a Swiss, Irish, or French victory. There's loads of other songs I love and I hope they do well, like Spain, Lithuania, and Armenia, but I'm also trying to keep my expectations realistic.
posted by PearlRose at 2:23 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

While waiting for the votes you can watch Windows95man's journey to Eurovision video series
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLu-QTfbDH5WhKuVIvF8SrSR-L1cSvavbz&si=ia_4qMot3uZ6YTZ5

Through which I discovered that Finland's Eurovision deputy delegation head was also one of Käärijä's dancers on "Cha Cha Cha"! There's a moment of crisis when Windows95man learns he may not be allowed to have his pyrotechnics because it destroyed LED floor panels during a rehearsal. Spoiler: they manage to come up with a solution and they get to keep the pyrotechnics!
posted by needled at 2:23 PM on May 11 [4 favorites]

Hahahah, Alcazar! I'm young again.
posted by gemmy at 2:24 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Well that was disappointing.
posted by biffa at 2:25 PM on May 11

AI ABBA was not on my Eurovision bingo card.
posted by PearlRose at 2:30 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

I loathe the avatars, but I love Conchita, Carola, and Charlotte so I'm a bit confused here.
posted by gemmy at 2:30 PM on May 11 [4 favorites]

That was the Four Seasons Total Landscaping of ABBA performances.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 2:33 PM on May 11 [12 favorites]

We should all bear in mind that last year it was Sonia.
posted by biffa at 2:33 PM on May 11

I feel there is a think piece waiting to be written about Ireland sending a witch.
posted by biffa at 2:35 PM on May 11

My ranking tiers, I would be happy with any of them winning.
1 Croatia
1 Switzerland
1 Spain

2 Lithuania
2 Finland

3 Norway
4 Armenia
4 Slovania
posted by gemmy at 2:36 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

The Petra postcard was hilarious.
posted by May Kasahara at 2:39 PM on May 11 [4 favorites]

Panini press replaced by shiny office chair.
posted by LostInUbe at 2:42 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

Loreen's nails have been upgraded to whole plate armor, but the panini press has been downgraded to a bicycle seat.
posted by PearlRose at 2:42 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

I would have already poked one of my eyes out if I was wearing those metal nails.
posted by needled at 2:43 PM on May 11

I love Loreen but this new song just isn't doing it for me.
posted by PearlRose at 2:45 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Original seat concept was a spike but y’know, health and safety.
posted by Orange Dinosaur Slide at 2:45 PM on May 11

Has Loreen sustained a knee injury? Because there is no excuse for this outrageously dull performance otherwise.
posted by freya_lamb at 2:46 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Interesting, I’ve never seen them go backwards in the recap order. Is that to accommodate, ahem, countries towards the beginning of the show?
posted by Orange Dinosaur Slide at 2:50 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Coming out next week: Loreen's Home Office Workout Series.
posted by LostInUbe at 2:51 PM on May 11 [4 favorites]

I think it might be--that and opening voting early on.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 2:51 PM on May 11

Here we go--national juries.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 2:53 PM on May 11

Coming out next week: Loreen's Home Office Workout Series.

With a special guest apperance from Nemo's platform. Cardio by Cyprus.
posted by PearlRose at 2:53 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

Whoops, can't edit out that crowd response.
posted by LostInUbe at 2:53 PM on May 11 [5 favorites]

Oooh, those were some boos with no applause.
posted by gemmy at 2:54 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Wow, that booing for Österdahl (deserved, tho).

And congrats to Jamala!
posted by May Kasahara at 2:54 PM on May 11

Nemo is so CUTE!
posted by gemmy at 2:58 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Swiss is really raking up those jury points, as they well should. Nemo's joy is delightful.
posted by PearlRose at 2:59 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Oof. Seems like the UK is returning to form...still hanging out on the bottom right.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 3:01 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

All I want to do is say "her!??" about Portugal, lol.
posted by gemmy at 3:01 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Happy that Germany is doing okay, compared to previous years. Sad about the UK.
posted by May Kasahara at 3:02 PM on May 11

Wow...has the anti-booing guy just fallen asleep at the button or what?
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 3:03 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

I'm kind of pleased Germany is getting a few jury points this year. They were really too good to get zero points.

As for the UK, well, he did sound kind of flat and there were so many strong singers tonight. I hear singing on key is kind of important for a song contest. (For the jury vote at least!)
posted by PearlRose at 3:03 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Oh, I miss Voyager. They were so good last year.
posted by PearlRose at 3:04 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

I didn't have high hopes for UK. The song was by numbers, the vocals were strained and the performance was too risque. Eurovision is camp not outre.
posted by freya_lamb at 3:06 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Wow...has the anti-booing guy just fallen asleep at the button or what?

I wonder if they added applause when needed for the performances so as not to prejudice the outcome, but decided to let the dice roll where they may for the administrators, presenters, etc.
posted by gemmy at 3:07 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

I feel much more comfortable when the UK does badly.
posted by biffa at 3:07 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

I knew Nemo would do well with the juries, but we're not even halfway through and they've just dominated.
posted by PearlRose at 3:09 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

I feel like Estonia were not the worst. Surprised Spain are doing so badly.
posted by biffa at 3:09 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

Youtube commenters are baffled as to why Switzerland is racking up the points.
posted by LostInUbe at 3:10 PM on May 11

i ran out to buy a birthday card during Loreen. I just don't love Loreen or the nails. Glad Nemo is doing well.
posted by jenfullmoon at 3:11 PM on May 11

I had a feeling Spain wouldn't do great with the juries, she puts on a fantastic show, but her vocals are a little soft and rough around the edges. It's more of a televote song than anything, really.

I'm a little sad that Lithuania is struggling with the juries, though. It wasn't that bad.
posted by PearlRose at 3:12 PM on May 11

It feels like some of the post soviet countries may not be ready to vote witch.
posted by biffa at 3:13 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Petra is a pro but her smile is looking a bit fixed. I’ll bet she can’t wait to go home, open a bottle, and put up her feet.
posted by Orange Dinosaur Slide at 3:13 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Petra is very "People, we are on a schedule here. No shenanigans! I don't care if your country's internet is slow."
posted by LostInUbe at 3:16 PM on May 11 [7 favorites]

Österdahl won't be in that seat next year at this rate.
posted by May Kasahara at 3:19 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

Estonia will not finish with a goose egg!
posted by LostInUbe at 3:19 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

Oh, a shame that Martin is announcing the Dutch jury vote. Nikkie (host of the wonderful NikkieTutorials 2021 backstage interviews with the contestants) was supposed to give the jury vote, but I guess the disqualification has muddled everything.
posted by PearlRose at 3:19 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Portugal seems to be the strategic 12 points from juries that play the long game and don't want to give 12 to their competition.
posted by PearlRose at 3:20 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

I can't remember juries ever being this (almost) unanimous.
posted by rjs at 3:23 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Seeing the other performers give Nemo hugs gives me life.
posted by May Kasahara at 3:24 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

Excited for Switzerland to keep getting points. Less excited for all the commentary misgendering them when their whole song was about being non-binary. Sigh.
posted by fight or flight at 3:25 PM on May 11 [6 favorites]

Yeah, the misgendering of Nemo and Bambie has been frustrating to listen to all season.
posted by PearlRose at 3:26 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

I can't remember juries ever being this (almost) unanimous.

It was this way for Loreen last year.
posted by freya_lamb at 3:27 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Hmmm, OK, forgot about that.
posted by rjs at 3:28 PM on May 11

Lol. That exchange just now.
posted by LostInUbe at 3:30 PM on May 11

I wonder if Switzerland has it in the bag already? They have gobbled up almost a sixth of the available jury points. (Oh, math is hard.)
posted by PearlRose at 3:31 PM on May 11

No zero points this year! Yay!
posted by PearlRose at 3:34 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Finland absolutely robbed on the public vote
posted by Klipspringer at 3:37 PM on May 11 [4 favorites]

Oh shiiiiiiiiit. Zero audience points for the UK.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 3:38 PM on May 11

Such a small number of votes from the public to the participating countries so far. One or two countries is going to dominate the televote.

Okay, I was sort of mistaken, UK is getting zero. But eh, at least they have jury points to comfort them.
posted by PearlRose at 3:38 PM on May 11

Ouch. Zero points from public for the UK.
posted by LostInUbe at 3:38 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Nemo, please get more than ten public votes. Please get more than ten public votes.
posted by PearlRose at 3:39 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

Oh no, Israel just shot to the top.
posted by jenfullmoon at 3:40 PM on May 11

Wait what
posted by Klipspringer at 3:41 PM on May 11

Whoa. Ukraine just outdid that.
posted by LostInUbe at 3:41 PM on May 11

0 points to the UK, 323 for Israel. Feels about right for the State Of Things.
posted by fight or flight at 3:41 PM on May 11

Oh thank god, thank you Ukraine.
posted by gemmy at 3:41 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Yes, thank you Ukraine!
posted by May Kasahara at 3:41 PM on May 11

Whew, I wasn't as into Ukraine's entry but at least it ain't Israel.
posted by jenfullmoon at 3:41 PM on May 11

CROATIA!!!!!
posted by jenfullmoon at 3:43 PM on May 11

Or Ukraine can do that. I'm okay with that. Or that score for Croatia. That is good too.
posted by PearlRose at 3:43 PM on May 11

My singing teacher canceled today due to sinus infection, I'm all "whew, I can keep watching this."
posted by jenfullmoon at 3:44 PM on May 11 [5 favorites]

Yay!
posted by freya_lamb at 3:46 PM on May 11

Congrats, Nemo! I would've preferred a Croatian win, but I can respect a great show from our enby champ.
posted by PearlRose at 3:46 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

I'm happy the top two are what they are.
posted by jenfullmoon at 3:46 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

Congrats to Nemo!
posted by May Kasahara at 3:46 PM on May 11

Yess! (Though I'd been happy with Croatia as well.)
posted by rjs at 3:46 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

SO GREAT!! What a finish! Ohhh I'm happy with this.
posted by gemmy at 3:46 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

I wasn't crazy about Switzerland, but at least Croatia came a very respectable second.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 3:47 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

I'm definitely okay with the top two. Both were really solid, and have definitely given us something to be proud of.
posted by PearlRose at 3:49 PM on May 11 [4 favorites]

The UK public gave 12 points to Israel? From the Eurovision voting demographic? I just don't 100% believe that.
posted by Klipspringer at 3:50 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Aww, I love that Bambie Thug crowned the witch.
posted by Orange Dinosaur Slide at 3:51 PM on May 11 [12 favorites]

Bah, Armenia was robbed. But Switzerland or Croatia are fine too.
posted by antiwiggle at 3:51 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

Not enough time to get the platform going for the winner's reprise, but I hope Nemo found everything they were looking for.
posted by PearlRose at 3:53 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

And the Irish public gave Israel 10 points 🤔🤔🤔🤔🤔🤔🤔
posted by Klipspringer at 3:54 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

That performance was genuine, pure joy. What a star!
posted by freya_lamb at 3:55 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Did the trophy break?!
posted by May Kasahara at 3:55 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Glad that Armenia placed in the top 10.
posted by needled at 3:56 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

I'm glad they didn't go on the platform for that performance, I would have worried about an injury. No injuries for Nemo, please!
posted by gemmy at 3:56 PM on May 11

Thanks, everyone, that was fun!
posted by rjs at 3:57 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

The trophy breaks surprisingly often.
posted by PearlRose at 3:58 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Thank you for another fun time, everyone! Whoa-ho-ho!
posted by May Kasahara at 3:58 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Yea, thanks. I had to watch, it was nice to have those of you who came to experience it with.
posted by gemmy at 3:59 PM on May 11 [1 favorite]

Cheers all 🙂
posted by freya_lamb at 4:09 PM on May 11

That was really an awful lot of fun, odd surprises like the windows 95 guy without pants and real tension about the vote counting. Tried to vote but my card was not in the right country or something. Thanks all!
posted by sammyo at 4:13 PM on May 11

See you in Switzerland for 2024!
posted by PearlRose at 4:16 PM on May 11 [4 favorites]

Thanks all, I really enjoyed reading your commentary as I watched.
posted by Monzz at 4:22 PM on May 11 [3 favorites]

Windows95man Is No Joke
posted by jenfullmoon at 5:19 PM on May 11 [2 favorites]

Eurovision 2024 Detailed Voting Results
posted by PearlRose at 8:22 PM on May 11 [5 favorites]

This morning I found the Overthinking It YT channel and enjoyed their videos about Croatia and UK/Netherlands.
posted by rjs at 10:49 PM on May 12

Oh, I see that the Windows95 one that jenfullmoon linked to is from the same channel.
posted by rjs at 10:51 PM on May 12

Their analysis of the Greek entry is peak overthinking, in my opinion. I didn't know until this video that Marina Satti's song and music video were so controversial in Greece.
posted by needled at 7:10 AM on May 13 [1 favorite]

greta thunberg's mom (2009, colorized)
posted by bombastic lowercase pronouncements at 8:44 AM on May 13