Eurovision Song Contest cancelled due to coronavirus pandemic

·

The 2020 Eurovision Song Contest has been cancelled for the first time in the event’s 64-year history due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Due to be held in Rotterdam on May 16, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) announced in a statement on Twitter that it feels ‘deep regret’ about the cancellation of the event.

“Over the past few weeks we have explored many alternative options to allow the Eurovision Song Contest to go ahead,” the EBU wrote.

“However, the uncertainty created by the spread of COVID-19 throughout Europe, and the restrictions put in place by the governments of the participating broadcasters and the Dutch authorities, means the EBU has taken the difficult decision that it is impossible to continue with the live event as planned.”

The executive supervisor of the contest, Jon Ola Sand, added in a video on Twitter that the event would return “stronger than ever.”

Stefania Liberakakis was set to represent Greece this year at the Eurovision Song Contest.

“We regret this situation very much but I can promise you, the Eurovision Song Contest will come back stronger than ever,” he said.

Greece was set to be represented by singer-songwriter Stefania Liberakakis with her song “SUPERG!RL,” and at this stage, it is not clear whether she will be asked to compete in next year’s competition.

Eurovision is the latest high-profile entertainment music event to be affected by the coronavirus outbreak, with Glastonbury also cancelled on the same day, and Coachella postponed until October.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Capturing legacies: The proika exhibition’s emotional tribute to Greek migrants

On Wednesday, November 20, the proika exhibition opened to a crowd of eager guests at the Thematikos x MBO Tailors creative space.

Golden Era Gala: A reunion with a cause to combat brain and rare cancers

White Pearl Foundation and Cquence Foundation have announced the Golden Era Gala to be held at the Hyatt Regency Sydney on November 30.

Melbourne scientist Steven Petratos offers hope to thousands with multiple sclerosis

The image of Steven Petratos’ grandfather, confined to a chair with trembling hands, left an indelible mark on his childhood.

Former Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett to launch book on Nick Thyssen’s legacy

Former Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett, supporter of Greece and its diaspora, will launch the biography of Nick Thyssen (Nikos Theodosiadis).

Ithacans in Melbourne enjoy sell-out film screening to support archaeological preservation

On Sunday, at Palace Como in Melbourne, a sell-out crowd of 135 Ithacans and friends gathered to see the historical epic, The Return.

You May Also Like

Maria Sakkari seals victory for Greece against Bulgaria at United Cup

Greek tennis player Maria Sakkari has sealed Team Greece's victory against Bulgaria at the United Cup in Australia.

‘The Mount Athos for artists’: The Greek island of Hydra

Hydra has become the destination for creatives, being used as a locational muse for artists from Henry Miller to Leonard Cohen.

Oakleigh Greek Community launches Greek Dance Academy

The Greek Orthodox Community of Oakleigh and District (Community) has extended their services to include traditional Greek dance.