Eurovision 2023 – live: Mae Muller to represent UK in Liverpool final

The Eurovision Song Contest is finally upon us, with the annual celebration of European music heading into its grand final in Liverpool on Saturday.

Tonight (13 May), the UK will stage its first Eurovision final in 25 years, hosting on behalf of 2022 winners Ukraine.

Earlier this week, 31 acts performed for the first time across two semi-finals, competing for 20 spots in the grand final.

The 20 selected acts will join Eurovision’s Big Five (France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom) and Ukraine, all of whom automatically progress to the final.

You can see all the acts who made it through to Saturday night’s final here.

The UK will this year be represented by Mae Muller, a 25-year-old singer from north London, with her track “I Wrote A Song”.

While Muller might not quite reach the same heights as the UK’s 2022 entry Sam Ryder, who finished in second place, the bookies still pin her among the frontrunners. You can read the latest odds here.

The competition is expected to be dominated by former champion Loreen, from Sweden, with her song “Tattoo”. Loreen’s 2012 track “Euphoria” is one of the most successful Eurovision songs of all time.

Key points

• Mae Muller interview: ‘Eurovision 2023 is the year of the pop girlies!’

• How to watch the Eurovision 2023 final

• Eurovision host Hannah Waddingham has always been a diva-in-waiting

• Latest betting odds and favourites

• Meet Loreen, the frontrunner and ‘Tattoo’ singer hoping to secure her second win for Sweden

Sweden’s Loreen wins Eurovision Song Contest 2023

00:13 , Roisin O'Connor

Sweden has been declared the winner of this year’s Eurovision Song Contest, following an incredible showing from Loreen in Liverpool.

A total of 26 countries performed at the city’s M&S Bank Arena during Saturday’s grand final (13 May) with the hopes of achieving Eurovision glory.

Loreen wowed the arena and viewers at home with her performance of “Tattoo”, earning a total of 583 votes from the jury and the public.

Sweden’s Loreen wins Eurovision Song Contest 2023

That’s a big OUCH for the UK

23:52 , Roisin O'Connor

A really sad result for the UK’s Mae Muller, who did her best but I think couldn’t stand up to the polished, powerhouse performances from Sweden, France, Italy and Norway.

And the UK gives douze points to... SWEDEN!

23:47 , Roisin O'Connor

That’s all the jury votes in, with Sweden absolutely dominating over the rest of the leaderboard, and the UK languishing behind with 16 points.

Sweden’s Loreen is absolutely dominating the jury results

23:39 , Roisin O'Connor

Four points for the UK from Sweden, with Loreen still top of the leaderbooard !

“I’m overwhelmed darling"

23:28 , Roisin O'Connor

Loreen says she’s in a meditative state after the first wave of jury votes sent her (and Sweden) straight to the top of the leaderboard.

Eurovision 2023: Most iconic outfits of grand final performances

23:25 , Roisin O'Connor

Hannah Waddingham scolds the booing!

23:18 , Roisin O'Connor

You probably heard some booing after the jury scores came in, with some countries giving their douze points to Italy or Israel. Eurovision host and Game of Thrones star Hannah Waddingham was having NONE of it: “No booing please!!” she told the live audience in Liverpool.

Results from the Eurovision jury come in thick and fast

23:12 , Roisin O'Connor

Lovely compliments from Ukraine and Italy for the joint UK-Ukraine hosting of Eurovision, accompanying the jury’s delivery of votes for each country. But the UK isn’t doing so well with the jury so far...

STOP VOTING

23:05 , Roisin O'Connor

Voting has now closed, I repeat, voting has CLOSED! That’s it. We can but wait.

Some more images of the spectacular performances this evening

22:57 , Roisin O'Connor

A sublime performance of The Beatles’ ‘Imagine’ starring Italy’s Mahmood opens the Liverpool all-stars show

22:52 , Roisin O'Connor

Honestly, the level of production that goes into Eurovision is just wild. After an orchestral version of “Imagine” with Mahmood we get Israel’s Netta singing “You Spin Me Right Round”, Iceland’s Dadi Freyr doing a hyper version of “Whole Again” by Atomic Kitten, and Sweden’s Cornelia Jones doing Mel C’s “I Turn To You”. A celebration of British pop if there ever was one.

Some pictures from the evening

22:46 , Roisin O'Connor

Ukraine Eurovision act’s hometown ‘under fire from Russian missiles during contest’

22:35 , Roisin O'Connor

The British Ambassador to Ukraine, Dame Melinda Simmons, has said Ukraine was under fire from Russian missiles on Saturday as the Eurovision Song Contest took place, including the university home town of the Ukrainian act Tvorchi.

“Meanwhile, this Eurovision night Ukraine is under another Russian missile attack,” Dame Melinda tweeted.

“Reminder that the reason why (Ukraine) could not host this event is because (Russia) continues to invade and the people of (Ukraine) live in continuing danger.”

Ukraine Eurovision act takes to stage as ‘Russian missiles rain down on hometown’

22:27 , Roisin O'Connor

The British Ambassador to Ukraine, Dame Melinda Simmons, has said Ukraine was under fire from Russian missiles on Saturday as the Eurovision Song Contest took place, including the university home town of the Ukrainian act Tvorchi.

“Meanwhile, this £Eurovision night Ukraine is under another Russian missile attack,” Dame Melinda tweeted.

“Reminder that the reason why (Ukraine) could not host this event is because (Russia) continues to invade and the people of (Ukraine) live in continuing danger.”

Praising Ukraine’s entrants in the song contest, Dame Melinda added: “Tvorchi (definitely) win the prize for graphics. The staging was brilliant.

“And poignant as their university home town of Ternopil was targeted by (Russian) missiles this eve.”

Press Association

Voting has officially opened!

22:22 , Roisin O'Connor

Here’s how to do it:

How to vote on Eurovision app

Mae Muller does the UK proud as voting opens

22:16 , Roisin O'Connor

It’s not easy going last! You’ve got all that pressure having watched a successive run of 25 other performances. But Mae did us proud with a sultry, albeit very breathy, rendition of “I Wrote a Song”.

Mae Muller: ‘Eurovision 2023 is the year of the pop girlies!’

Croatia is one for the books

22:11 , Roisin O'Connor

Where do you even start...

Graham Norton is a big fan of Israel’s Noa Kirel

22:02 , Roisin O'Connor

Look out for the choreography on this one...

Meet Germany’s Lord of the Lost

21:55 , Roisin O'Connor

Lord of the Lost: Meet Germany’s head-banging, throat-ripping Eurovision entry

Norway’s Alessandra brings the house down with Queen of Kings

21:52 , Roisin O'Connor

Norway always end up among the favourites but this year’s entry, TikTok sensation Alessandra, is truly outstanding. She just hit a spectacular whistle note in a song that has it all, and it’s absolutely got to end up in this year’s top 5.

Why did Luxembourg leave Eurovision?

21:51 , Roisin O'Connor

Why did Luxembourg leave Eurovision?

A Q&A with Ukraine’s 2023 Eurovision entry TVORCHI

21:48 , Roisin O'Connor

• How are you feeling about competing in Eurovision 2023?

Andrew: Eurovision is a place to unite people from different countries with different music. We are proud to represent Ukraine on the international stage in Liverpool.

Jeffery: Last years Ukraine was already shown with folk songs of Kaluch and GO-A. It was a great representation. But this year we will show the country from another side - with progressive electronic music. We show everyone how different Ukraine can be.

Andrew: We wrote the song to show that we have something to say to Europe and the world. Our track is called Heart of Steel. This song is about everyone who, despite all the hopelessness, carries a heart of steel in his chest and goes forward.

Jeffery: This year we won't be performing in Kyiv because of Russian’s full scape invasion of Ukraine. But we like to say huge thank you to the United Kingdom for hosting and all support.

• What is the meaning and inspiration behind “Heart of Steel”?

Jeffery: Heart of Steel is about the bravery of being yourself: free in your actions, expressions and thoughts. To keep going no matter how wounded and exhausted you are. It’s about believing in yourself even if everyone has already sunk into despair. About unbreakable will which makes you who you really are.

Andrew: Over the past year, Ukraine has become an example of courage and resilience for the entire planet. We have all seen that all Ukrainians carry hearts of steel in their chests, despite all the difficulties. But there are children who need to have the same heart of steel. We launched the important initiative with the global leader in digital payments company Visa and the fundraising platform UNITED24. Because of the war, the number of premature babies has increased by at least 15%. Behind this figure there are thousands of vulnerable children who were born prematurely and cannot survive without special assistance, incubators are needed to save their little hearts.

Jeffery: Its goal now is to raise at least UAH 10 million for 10 intensive care incubators.As the lyrics to our song “Heart of Steel”, with which we will represent Ukraine at the Eurovision Song Contest, say: “Despite the pain, I continue my fight. The world is burning, but you have to act”. So let's unite in a single rhythm of “heart of steel” to help children's hearts beat!

• What's an essential item in your Eurovision rider?

Jeffery: In fact, we don't have a special common rider for Eurovision. We didn't even send it because it was so important to us. For us, the main thing is a technical rider, thanks to which we can prepare a good performance.

Andrew: But we also have a common rider when we have concerts. And one of its items is yellow M&M's. But this is not a whim, but a test of the organizers' attentiveness. If we go into the dressing room and see that there are M&Ms there, it means that the rider has been carefully read and all other points will be fulfilled.

• Who's your favourite Eurovision contestant of all time and why?

Jeffery: My favourite Eurovision contestant is Maneskin, they are the perfect modern rockstars. And we would also like to note last year's performance of the British Sam Ryder.

Andrew: It's the same for me, but I also want to add Ukrainian artists such as Ruslana, Verka Serdyuchka and Jamala.

Armenia’s Brunette surprises and delights with ‘Future Lover'

21:39 , Roisin O'Connor

This is the kind of thing I love, when a country sends in what, at first, appears to be another ballad but... wait, what’s that?! Brunette, representing Armenia, has plenty of twists in store, including a little rap breakdown, jolting what could have been a snoozefest into something far more memorable. And the audience loves it!

SORRY BELGIUM

21:31 , Roisin O'Connor

But I really can’t stand this one, it’s kind of like a cheap Nineties disco knock-off? And Gustaph is sounding very pitchy, which might have been fine in previous years, but 2023 has seen some seriously powerhouse singers step onto the stage.

Australia’s Voyager compete with ‘Promise'

21:26 , Roisin O'Connor

I do love this one but I’m with Graham Norton, who thinks the lads might get overwhelmed by Finland’s “Cha Cha Cha”. I am LOVING the Eighties, Depeche Mode meets hair rock thing though.

Here’s what you need to know about Voyager:

Australia Eurovision 2023: Who are Australian representative Voyager?

Phew...

21:16 , Roisin O'Connor

We’re less than an hour in and I’m KNACKERED. I almost forgot what a whirlwind Eurovision is. Anyway, HERE’S FINLAND. It’s a rave at the Liverpool arena.

A reminder of the lyrics to Italy’s beautiful ballad

21:11 , Roisin O'Connor

Italy Eurovision song: Translated lyrics for Marco Mengoni’s entry Due Vite

Princess of Wales makes surprise Eurovision cameo with piano solo

21:10 , Roisin O'Connor

Albania bringing the drama!

21:06 , Roisin O'Connor

We adore Albani’s Albina & Familja Kelmendi with the pwerful “Duje”, along with those outfits that are giving Abba if they crossed over to the dark side.

Loreen proves why she’s the favourite to win for Sweden with ‘Tattoo’

21:01 , Roisin O'Connor

Sweden’s returning champion Loreen just proved why she’s the favourite to win this year with a dramatic performance of electro-pop banger “Tattoo”. It’s an incredibly ambitious song, full of tricky key changes and belts, and the choreography was sublime too.

Another favourite from Spain’s Blanca Paloma

20:54 , Roisin O'Connor

I absolutely adore Spain’s entry, Blanca Paloma, whoo’ channeling Rosalia with her red leather chest plate and slicked-back hair. This is a classic case of a country taking pride in its musical heritage, in this case with the heavy flamenco influences. Sublime.

Cyprus competes with Andrew Lambrou and “Break A Broken Heart"

20:50 , Roisin O'Connor

I’m getting big Imagine Dragons vibes from Cyprus’s 2023 entry (contrary to most music critics/snobs’ opinions, that’s not a bad thing in my book. “Break a Broken Heart” is just the kind of big, dramatic anthem that Eurovision fans go nuts for, and it doesn’t hurt that Andrew Lambrou is totally rocking that leather vest.

20:46 , Roisin O'Connor

Here are the translated lyrics for Italy’s Eurovision entry Due Vite

20:45 , Roisin O'Connor

We adore Marco Mengoni’s poignant ballad “Due Vita”, but what do the lyrics actually mean?

Here you go:

What the lyrics to Marco Mengoni’s Italy Eurovision entry ‘Due Vite’ mean

Eurovision 2023 La Zarra nails her performance of “Evidement"

20:44 , Roisin O'Connor

La Zarra is a favourite this year with her song “Evidement”, which is suitably drramatic and features one hell of a belt. The audience are loving it!

Serbia are this year’s Eurovision goths

20:38 , Roisin O'Connor

Luke Black’s “Samo Mi Se Spava” is giving me major Placebo vibes, while he also seems to have been taking wardrobe advice from Edward Scissorhands.

Kate Middleton makes surprise cameo in Eurovision final with Ukraine’s Kalush Orchestra

20:34 , Roisin O'Connor

Annabel Nugent has the details on that surprise cameo from the Princess of Wales:

Kate Middleton makes shock cameo in Eurovision final with Ukraine’s Kalush Orchestra

Switzerland are back with... another ballad

20:32 , Roisin O'Connor

Switzerland are always one of the favourites but I find they’ve sent very similar-sounding efforts in the last few years. Usually it’s some sort of empowering ballad, with this year’s “Watergun” being a very transparent reference to Russia’s war on Ukraine and the real people on the frontline. Lovely vocals from Remo Forrer but pretty forgettable.

Portugal put on a dramatic display with Mimcat’s “Ai Coração"

20:26 , Roisin O'Connor

Austria go first with madcap entry Who the Hell is Edgar?

20:23 , Roisin O'Connor

This song feels a lot like Norway’s popular wolf-y entry last year, with some impressive vocals landing from Teya & Salena. I also like the stage design, which feels very Kraftwerk-inspired.

Here are our glamorous hosts!

20:16 , Roisin O'Connor

Hannah Waddingham, Graham Norton, Alesha Dixon and Ukrainian singer Julia Sanina are our hosts for this evening, all looking absolutely spectacular.

Eurovision 2023 opens in spectacular fashion with Ukraine champions Kalush Orchestra

20:07 , Roisin O'Connor

Ukraine’s 2022 champions Kalush Orchestra have kicked off Eurovision 2023 in spectacular fashion, with surprise cameos from Joss Stone, Andrew Lloyd Webber and... the Princess of Wales?!

You heard that right: Kate Middleton appeared in a pre-recorded segment playing a piano interlude to the hip-hop group’s single “Stefania”, wearing a blue gown in an additional expression of solidarity.

That’s it for another year

00:46 , Roisin O'Connor

You can enjoy critic Mark Beaumont’s recap of all the madness here:

Poe himself couldn’t have scripted a better Eurovision final - review

Less than 10 minutes to go...

19:51 , Roisin O'Connor

I realised I haven’t told you who my personal favourites are, so let’s rattle through them before the contest kicks off.

Mae Muller’s subtle bop “I Wrote a Song” is, in my view, one of the strongest contenders. It has those Latin flecks of guitar that make you think of summer and revenge, along with a catchy chorus that’s easy to sing along to. There’s Finland’s “Cha Cha Cha”, which I mentioned in the blog earlier (look out for Kaarija’s excellent costume), with its pulsating techno beats, and La Zarra’s dance-pop twist on Edith Piaf’s classic French balladry, complete with extravagant hand gestures.

Elsewhere, you know I’m always rooting for the Italians (ciao Mahmood), and this year is no different - they have another hot contender in the shape of Marco Mengoni and his tender ballad “Due Vita”. I only worry that it’s too similar to Mahmood and Blanco last year with “Brividi”, but we’ll see, si?

You can bet Austria, who are first in tonight’s running order, will be popular, with their whacky dance-techno-chamber-pop bop, “Who the Hell is Edgar?” Queen Alessandra of Norway is another favourite with “Queen of Kings”, while Spain’s Blanca Paloma is bringing the D-R-A-M-A with her Rosalia-esque, flamenco-influenced “EAEA”.

10 minutes until showtime, let’s GO!

How Eurovision voting works – and the massive rule change for 2023

19:41 , Roisin O'Connor

You can help decide who comes out top in tonight’s grand final!

Here’s a breakdown of Eurovision’s peculiar voting system, and how to get involved.

How to vote in Eurovision grand final 2023

How does Eurovision voting work?

19:32 , Roisin O'Connor

If you’re watching tonight, you might be interested in our handy guide on the Eurovision voting system.

It’s a bit of a weird one to get your head around, but the process of voting for your favourite contestants is actually relatively straightforward.

Hopefully we’ve explained it in simple terms, right here!

How does Eurovision voting work?

Hannah Waddingham as Eurovision host was a stroke of genius

19:31 , Roisin O'Connor

Hannah Waddingham has been the breakout star of this year’s Eurovision presenting team (we love them all, obvs).

The Game of Thrones actor impressed fans at the semi-finals with her linguistic talents, as well as with her general demeanor.

My colleague Jessie Thompson is also a big fan, and wrote a comment piece attesting to that fact:

Hannah Waddingham as Eurovision host was a stroke of genius

Mae Muller: ‘Eurovision 2023 is the year of the pop girlies!’

19:21 , Roisin O'Connor

Following Sam Ryder’s Eurovision success last year, Mae Muller is the artist hoping to continue the UK’s high-scoring streak in Liverpool. She talks to Isobel Lewis about novelty acts, criticising the Tories and why the wacky song contest is finally being taken seriously.

Mae Muller: ‘Eurovision 2023 is the year of the pop girlies!’

Who is the Eurovision mystery guest?!

19:11 , Roisin O'Connor

Our favourite Eurovision duo, the BBC’s Rylan and Scott Mills, have been getting us worked up with remarks about the rumoured mystery guest set to appear at tonight’s final.

Paul McCartney fans are convinced that The Beatles legend, Liverpool’s own hometown hero, will be the big surprise, while others think it’ll be a past Eurovision star.

“I thought it was going to be Charles and Camilla giving out the points, but apparently it's Catherine Tate,” Rylan joked earlier this week.

“There has been some stuff happening in rehearsals where it's been a completely closed set,” Mills, the big gossip, revealed. “There's a lot of secrecy and no-one will tell us what's going on.”

“Give me two drinks and I'll tell you everything,” Rylan joked.

Someone get the man a double vodka soda!

Lord of the Lost: Meet Germany’s head-banging, throat-ripping Eurovision entry

19:01 , Roisin O'Connor

Germany’s Eurovision entry talks to Isobel Lewis about rejecting the rock’n’roll lifestyle and their song ‘Blood and Glitter.

Lord of the Lost: Meet Germany’s head-banging, throat-ripping Eurovision entry

Brexit protest of 75,000 flags planned for Eurovision tonight

18:51 , Roisin O'Connor

The flag of Europe will be handed out to audience members at this weekend’s Eurovision Song Contest final by activists staging an anti-Brexit protest.

Full story:

Brexit protest of 75,000 flags planned for Eurovision tonight

EBU turns down offer of Zelensky address at grand final

18:41 , Roisin O'Connor

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which produces the Eurovision Song Contest, has said it had declined Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelensky’s request to speak this evening, over fears it could politicise the contest.

The Ukrainian leader had wanted to make an unannounced video appearance and had been expected to implore the global audience of millions to continue backing his country in its fight to repel Russian invaders.

The EBU said Mr Zelensky had “laudable intentions” but “regrettably” his request was against the rules.

The move prompted criticism from Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his predecessor Boris Johnson, among other figures.

The EBU has declined to comment further.

What do the Finnish lyrics to Käärijä’s Eurovision 2023 entry ‘Cha Cha Cha’ mean?

18:31 , Roisin O'Connor

So we all love the bleepy banger that is Finland’s entry, ‘Cha Cha Cha’, yes?

The title is a beaut of a misnomer - if you were expecting a sedate, possibly Latin-influenced ballad, you are sorely mistaken. Kaarija have come up with a pounding techno frenzy, featuring Finnish rap and a crunchy synth breakdown.

In case you were wondering, here’s what they’re singing / rapping about:

What the lyrics to Finland’s Eurovision song ‘Cha Cha Cha’ mean in English

Alessandra: Who is Norway’s 20-year-old Eurovision favourite with a fan in Ellie Goulding?

18:21 , Roisin O'Connor

Who is Norway’s Eurovision favourite Alessandra? TikTok star adored by Ellie Goulding

Sam Ryder delights Eurovision fans with surprise performance on Liverpool docks

18:16 , Roisin O'Connor

This time last year....

18:11 , Roisin O'Connor

Full disclosure, I am not in Liverpool tonight, not least because who has £8,000 to spend on a hotel room... but also because I’ve been in Brighton (undoubtedly the second-best place to be celebrating the Song Contest tonight) helping to host The Independent’s stage at The Great Escape festival.

It’s a bit of a reality-check from last year, when I was flitting around Turin, Italy, giddy from a surprise heatwave (even the Italians were like, “Eh, fa un po’ troppo caldo...”) and a Campari Spritz or several. Being backstage at Eurovision is, as a close friend who works with the Contest once pointed out, a lot like being backstage at a school play. Everyone’s in good spirits, many are in wild costumes, and there’s a lot of glitter!

Last year was also very emotional for obvious reasons. I actually ended up sitting opposite some Ukrainian media delegates in the press room, who were very sweet, but you can imagine how tense it became when the final scores were coming in and it was neck-and-neck between the UK and the Ukraine. I’m not going to fib: I was rooting for Kalush Orchestra, not because of politics or pity, but because Kalush Orchestra were categorically the best act of that year. And it’s hard to describe the sheer joy that descended on the place when Ukraine were announced as the winners.

Liverpool fan village opens ahead of Eurovision

18:01 , Alex Green

Liverpool’s fan village has thrown open its gates ahead of the grand final of the Eurovision Song Contest.

Ticket-holders gathered for hours in the beating sun ahead of the Eurovision Village on the historic Pier Head opening to the public on Saturday.

There were cheers from fans dressed as Ukrainian acts Verka Serduchka and Kalush Orchestra and families in Union flag outfits as the stewards removed the barriers.

Some ran straight to the front of the stage to claim a prime spot for the performances from acts including Claire Richards from Steps and Katrina Leskanich of Katrina And The Waves, ahead of the screening of the grand final from 8pm on the big screens.

Sean, 28, from Liverpool, came wearing a T-shirt featuring Finnish entry Kaarija, the eccentric rapper whose hyperpop hit Cha Cha Cha is among the favourites to win.

He told the PA news agency: “As you can see, I think you know who we are supporting today. Obviously the favourite is Finland. I do think he has got a chance.”

Speaking about UK entry Mae Muller, who is performing last, Sean added: “I enjoy the entry. I think there have been some issues with the vocals.

“But I think it is a good closer. It will be a nice way to round off the show.”

Mark, 29, also from Liverpool, wore a luminescent green outfit reminiscent of Kaarija’s own bolero-style jacket.

He added of Muller’s song: “It is very typically pop, it is not typical Eurovision style which I quite like. I think it will do quite well.”

Speaking about Liverpool’s showcasing of Ukrainian culture, Mark added: “I think it is amazing. If you go around you can see Ukraine everywhere, whether it is the signs or flags, it is just Ukrainian.

“It is even the case that they have brought a Ukrainian host in to help with Liverpool. I hope we have done Ukraine proud.”

Nicki, 30, from Darlington, came to the fan zone dressed as Serduchka with the Ukrainian flag painted on her cheeks, and told PA she usually watched the grand final as part of a viewing party but had been “wanting to do this for years”.

She said she was supporting Loreen from Sweden, another favourite to win, but also backed Muller.

However, Nicki added: “I think it’s hard to compete with last year’s act. We kind of hit our peak last year. It is just unfortunate we missed out on winning but obviously everyone wanted Ukraine to do well. So hopefully she will be on the left side of the board.”

She said Liverpool’s showcasing of Ukrainian culture around the city was “fantastic” and showed “we are united”.

The grand final on Saturday night will see Muller finally take to the stage, after it emerged Ukraine’s president Volodymyr Zelensky had been barred from addressing the event.

After months of preparation, the 25-year-old singer from north London will finally perform her track, I Wrote A Song, for the international voting public.

She is hoping to continue the success of last year’s UK entry Sam Ryder, who finished second behind Kalush Orchestra.

Twenty-six acts will perform at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool to an expected global audience of 160 million viewers, according to the BBC, after the UK agreed to host the contest on behalf of war-torn Ukraine.

Reporting by Press Association

Meet Loreen, Sweden’s 2023 hopeful and a Eurovision legend

17:51 , Roisin O'Connor

Ask any Eurovision fan about the most iconic past contestants and Loreen will likely be up there.

The returning Swedish champ is competing in tonight’s final with her track “Tattoo”, a quintissential Scandipop banger complete with euphoric chorus and pulsating synth beats.

Read about Loreen in her own words in this fab Q&A with my colleague Isobel Lewis.

Loreen: Meet Sweden’s returning Eurovision champion hoping to score a second victory

Who are Vesna, the all-female folk group from Czechia representing ‘underdogs’?

17:41 , Roisin O'Connor

As Eurovision kicks off in Liverpool, we chat with viral sensation Alessandra about representing Norway

Who is Eurovision favourite Alessandra? Norway’s TikTok star adored by Ellie Goulding

Hannah Waddingham as Eurovision host was a stroke of genius

18:27 , Roisin O'Connor

Hannah Waddingham is the breakout star of this year’s presenting team (we love them all, obvs).

She delighted fans at the semi-finals with her impressive linguistic talents, as well as her generally delightful demeanour.

My colleague Jessie Thompson agrees, and has written a comment piece about why the Game of Thrones star’s appointment was such a stroke of genius.

Hannah Waddingham as Eurovision host was a stroke of genius

Eurovision 2022 winners Kalush Orchestra are planning ‘something special’ for tonight’s Liverpool final

18:24 , Roisin O'Connor

Who is the mystery guest going to be in the Eurovision final?

17:21 , Roisin O'Connor

So they’ve been teasing a mystery guest, as if we needed any additional reason to feel excited about the Eurovision Song Contest. Who do you think it’ll be?

Tonight’s show will represent the culture of host city Liverpool along with last year’s winner, Ukraine, who were unable to host the event because of the ongoing invasion by Russia.

We know that we’ll be treated to a performance by 2022 champions Kalush Orchestra, who will kick off the show at 8pm BST, and also see live renditions of songs by Ukraine’s 2016 winner Jamala, and UK’s 2022 runner-up and all-round lovely chap Sam Ryder.

Given the significance of this year’s event taking place in the UK, for the first time since 1998, my bets are on a major British pop star.

Lovely words from Eurovision legend Rylan

17:01 , Roisin O'Connor

Mae Muller: ‘Eurovision 2023 is the year of the pop girlies!’

16:41 , Roisin O'Connor

Following Sam Ryder’s Eurovision success last year, Mae Muller is the artist hoping to continue the UK’s high-scoring streak in Liverpool. She talks to Isobel Lewis about novelty acts, criticising the Tories and why the wacky song contest is finally being taken seriously

Mae Muller: ‘Eurovision 2023 is the year of the pop girlies!’

16:21 , Roisin O'Connor

Hello, bonjour, ciao, hola and all the rest! I hope you’ve been enjoying The Independent’s Eurovision coverage so far... we are VERY excited for tonight’s contest in Liverpool. And yes, we’re obviously a little biased in favour of the UK’s very own Mae Muller, but that doesn’t mean we’ll be ignoring the 25 other countries taking part in the competition.

Stay with us for all the latest updates, before the main event kicks off at 8pm live and on the BBC.

How to watch the grand final

16:10 , Annabel Nugent

Start time, end time, what channel... we’ve got all the information for the glitziest night in music television below!

Eurovision 2023: How to watch the grand final

The best 10 winning performances

15:50 , Annabel Nugent

As with anything, not all Eurovision winners are created equal. Here are our top 10 best winning performances...

The 10 greatest winning Eurovision performances

ICYMI

15:30 , Roisin O'Connor

Here’s the running order for tonight, with Austria up first and the UK tasked with closing the competition...

1. Austria | Teya & Salena - Who The Hell Is Edgar?

2. Portugal | Mimicat - Ai Coração

3. Switzerland | Remo Forrer - Watergun

4. Poland | Blanka - Solo

5. Serbia | Luke Black - Samo Mi Se Spava

6. France: La Zarra - Évidemment

7. Cyprus | Andrew Lambrou - Break A Broken Heart

8. Spain: Blanca Paloma - Eaea

9. Sweden | Loreen - Tattoo

10. Albania | Albina & Familja Kelmendi - Duje

11. Italy: Marco Mengoni - Due Vite

12. Estonia | Alika - Bridges

13. Finland | Käärijä - Cha Cha Cha

14. Czechia | Vesna - My Sister’s Crown

15. Australia | Voyager - Promise

16. Belgium | Gustaph - Because Of You

17. Armenia | Brunette - Future Lover

18. Moldova | Pasha Parfeni - Soarele şi Luna

19. Ukraine: TVORCHI - Heart of Steel

20. Norway | Alessandra - Queen of Kings

21. Germany: Lord of the Lost - Blood & Glitter

22. Lithuania | Monika Linkytė - Stay

23. Israel | Noa Kirel - Unicorn

24. Slovenia | Joker Out - Carpe Diem

25. Croatia | Let 3 - Mama ŠÄŒ!

26. United Kingdom | Mae Muller - I Wrote A Song

Eurovision Song Contest final running order and lineup 2023

Who is UK star Mae Muller?

15:30 , Annabel Nugent

Following Sam Ryder’s Eurovision success last year, Mae Muller is the artist hoping to continue the UK’s high-scoring streak in Liverpool. Check out our in-depth interview with the singer here...

Mae Muller: ‘Eurovision 2023 is the year of the pop girlies!’

What do the French lyrics to La Zarra’s song Évidemment mean in English

15:10 , Annabel Nugent

France’s La Zarra is bringing some Hollywood glamour to Liverpool tonight.

Born in Montreal to Francophone Canadian parents, La Zarra rose to fame in 2021 with the single “Tu t’en iras” (“You Will Leave”), which was certified platinum.

For Eurovision, however, La Zarra will be performing another of her songs titled “Évidement”, which she wrote alongside Benny Adam. Check out the lyrics (and the English translation) below...

Who is returning champion Loreen?

14:50 , Annabel Nugent

Fans will, of course, recognise Eurovison royalty Loreen who is returning to the competition with the hopes of securing Sweden another win.

Loreen is Sweden’s returning champion hoping to score a second Eurovision victory

How to vote tonight!

14:30 , Annabel Nugent

If you’re planning on casting a vote tonight, you’re going to want to read up on the big change to the rules this year!

How Eurovision voting works – and the massive change to the rules for 2023

The final 26 countries competing tonight

14:10 , Annabel Nugent

After two epic semi-finals earlier this week, we now have the 26 countries due to battle it out for a chance at Eurovision glory tonight.

This list is made up of the 20 countries who qualified in the semi-finals, last year’s winners (Ukraine), and the so-called Big Five (the UK, Germany, Spain, Italy, France) whose financial contributions to the event mean they automatically qualify for the grand final.

The 26 countries competing in Eurovision’s grand final are confirmed

‘I liked the bit when she stopped the music’

13:50 , Annabel Nugent

What would Eurovision be without Graham Norton and his signature snarky remarks?

The talk show host is a pivotal part of Eurovision in the UK. Here’s a list of his most brutal (and hilarious) commentary...

Graham Norton’s most savage Eurovision commentary moments

Some suggested viewing ahead of tonight...

13:30 , Annabel Nugent

What better way to get in the mood for tonight’s competition than watching Will Ferrell’s hilarious Eurovision-based film: The Story of Ice and Fire.

With a star-studded cast including Ferrell as co-writer and co-star opposite Rachel McAdams, the movie follows Lars Erickssong and Sigrit Ericksdottir, an Icelandic pop duo determined to win over their small town and represent Iceland at the Eurovision finals.

The film takes inspiration from real-life iconic moments in Eurovision history. Here’s all the call-backs you missed...

All the real-life comparisons you missed in Will Ferrell’s Eurovision Netflix film

How Abba’s douze-points energy at Eurovision started a pop revolution

13:10 , Annabel Nugent

While we’ve had some pretty memorable winners in the past, no one has managed to top ABBA.

The Swedish superstars rocketed to international fame after they wowed Europe with “Waterloo” at the 1974 song contest.

Here, we trace the road from Sweden to superstardom for Agnetha, Björn, Benny, and Anni-Frid.

How Abba’s douze-points energy at Eurovision started a pop revolution

Why are Bulgaria and North Macedonia not competing this year?

12:50 , Annabel Nugent

There are some notable countries missing from this year’s line-up.

Check out our explainer below to find out how Russia’s ban from Eurovision has had consequences for Bulgaria and North Macedonia.

Why North Macedonia, Bulgaria and Russia aren’t competing at Eurovision this year

From ABBA to Kalush Orchestra, here’s every winner ranked from worst to best

12:30 , Annabel Nugent

Ahead of tonight’s competition, cast your mind back to the past winners.

Good or bad, they were certainly all... memorable.

From Maneskin to Kalush Orchestra and ABBA to Conchita Wurst, here’s our ranking of every winner ranked from worst to best.

Every Eurovision winner ranked from worst to best

Latest betting odds and favourites

11:50 , Annabel Nugent

I’m afraid things aren’t looking too good for the UK, at least according to the bookies.

Here’s the latest betting odds and favourites to win for tonight’s competition...

Eurovision 2023: Betting odds, favourites, sweepstake and scorecards

What do the lyrics to Finland’s entry mean?

11:29 , Annabel Nugent

Among this year’s frontrunners is Finland!

Competing for the country this year is Käärijä with his upbeat paen to piña coladas and pints: “Cha Cha Cha.”

If you want to sing-along tonight, you can check out the lyrics (and the English translation) here...

What the lyrics to Finland’s Eurovision song ‘Cha Cha Cha’ mean in English

What is the running order for tonight?

10:50 , Annabel Nugent

UK fans will have to stay up late, with Mae Muller scheduled to perform last out of the 26 countries. At least she’ll be fresh in voters’ minds!

1. Austria | Teya & Salena - Who The Hell Is Edgar?

2. Portugal | Mimicat - Ai Coração

3. Switzerland | Remo Forrer - Watergun

4. Poland | Blanka - Solo

5. Serbia | Luke Black - Samo Mi Se Spava

6. France: La Zarra - Évidemment

7. Cyprus | Andrew Lambrou - Break A Broken Heart

8. Spain: Blanca Paloma - Eaea

9. Sweden | Loreen - Tattoo

10. Albania | Albina & Familja Kelmendi - Duje

11. Italy: Marco Mengoni - Due Vite

12. Estonia | Alika - Bridges

13. Finland | Käärijä - Cha Cha Cha

14. Czechia | Vesna - My Sister’s Crown

15. Australia | Voyager - Promise

16. Belgium | Gustaph - Because Of You

17. Armenia | Brunette - Future Lover

18. Moldova | Pasha Parfeni - Soarele şi Luna

19. Ukraine: TVORCHI - Heart of Steel

20. Norway | Alessandra - Queen of Kings

21. Germany: Lord of the Lost - Blood & Glitter

22. Lithuania | Monika Linkytė - Stay

23. Israel | Noa Kirel - Unicorn

24. Slovenia | Joker Out - Carpe Diem

25. Croatia | Let 3 - Mama ŠÄŒ!

26. United Kingdom: Mae Muller - I Wrote A Song

Where are the UK’s past Eurovision entries now?

10:33 , Annabel Nugent

For one day of the year, Eurovision captivates millions of viewers – but what happens when the cameras stop rolling?

In the past, the nation’s Eurovision entries have covered a wide variety of performers, from household names like Cliff Richard and the late Olivia Newton-John, to more obscure up-and-comers.

Here’s a rundown of some of the UK’s most note-worthy past Eurovision entrants – and where they are now.

Where are the UK Eurovision entries now?

Who is Mae Muller?

10:11 , Annabel Nugent

Meet the star hoping to lead the UK to victory tonight with her infectious pop anthem “I Wrote A Song”.

We spoke to the North London-based artist ahead of tonight’s show. Check out the interview here...

ICYMI

09:35 , Annabel Nugent

These are the 26 countries set to perform tonight with the hopes of being crowned this year’s Eurovision winners.

The 26 countries competing in Eurovision’s grand final are confirmed

Today’s the day!

08:45 , Annabel Nugent

Happy Eurovision day all those who celebrate!

Stay tuned on our live blog for all the updates and latest information regarding tonight’s big event.

Who’s going to win Eurovision (according to the bookies)

08:23 , Tom Murray

All week, the bookmakers have been breaking down who they think will walk away with the Eurovision trophy on Saturday.

Throughout, one name has stood out as a clear frontrunner: that of Sweden’s entry, Loreen.

You can find out who she’s up against below.

Meet Loreen, the Swedish singer who might just win Eurovision twice

07:27 , Tom Murray

We spoke to the woman everyone’s talking about this year: returning champion Loreen.

After winning in 2012, the “Euphoria” singer is back with a new, equally catching song.

You can check out our interview with her below.

Loreen is Sweden’s returning champion hoping to score a second Eurovision victory

06:22 , Tom Murray

Missed out on the second semi-final? Here’s the whole thing, summed up in 60 seconds.

The best 10 winning performances

05:28 , Tom Murray

The Independent’s Olivia Emily has looked back at 10 of the greatest winning Eurovision performances of all time ahead of this year’s final.

From Måneskin to ABBA, find them all here.

The 10 greatest winning Eurovision performances

Video: Eurovision’s creative director says final will showcase ‘new generation of Ukraine’

04:25 , Tom Murray

Graham Norton’s best commentating moments

03:27 , Tom Murray

Graham Norton has been hosting Eurovision since 2008.

The talk show host quickly became renowned for mocking the length of the four-hour final, and also for noticing when “someone dressed up” for the announcement of scores from each participating country.

Below, The Independent has rounded up some of his most savage lines from over the years.

Read more:

Graham Norton’s most savage Eurovision commentary moments

Meet Voyager, the prog-rock band representing Australia this year

02:31 , Tom Murray

The Independent’s Isobel Lewis has taken a look at Australia’s entrants, Voyager.

The prog-rock group were shortlisted to compete for Australia in 2020 (although they did not make it to the country’s final), only to become the runners-up in Australia’s competition last year.

“I genuinely think we were a point of difference for Australia last year; a heavy band with a pop sheen, and our song had immediacy to it,” guitarist Scott Kay told The Independent.

“This year, we believe it only made sense to be chosen to represent the country considering how close we came in 2022!”

Read more:

Voyager: Meet the Eurovision die-hards finally representing Australia this year

Video: Eurovision contestants look forward to final performance

01:29 , Tom Murray

Who is Eurovision favourite Alessandra?

Saturday 13 May 2023 00:37 , Tom Murray

The Independent’s Meg Warren-Lister has taken a look at Norway’s entry to the Eurovision Song Contest this year: Alessandra.

The Norwegian-Italian singer has already racked up more than 25 million streams on Spotify with her song “Queen of Kings”, which she will be performing during Saturday’s (13 May) grand final.

Alessandra rose to fame in her home country only last year after appearing on Norway’s version of The Voice.

Speaking about the inspiration behind “Queen of Kings”, she said the song is about the power of women as well as her experiences as a bisexual woman.

Read more:

Who is Eurovision favourite Alessandra? Norway’s TikTok star adored by Ellie Goulding

Video: Graham Norton jokes EBU rules with ‘iron fist’ after Zelensky’s request blocked

Friday 12 May 2023 23:39 , Tom Murray

How Eurovision voting works – and the massive rule change for the 2023 final

Friday 12 May 2023 21:45 , Isobel Lewis

Eurovision’s voting system is always complex and always changing. This year, a new rule has been brought in allowing viewers from countries not competing in Eurovision to vote for the first time.

Want the lowdown? Read below...

How Eurovision voting works – and the massive change to the rules for 2023

Who are Vesna, the all-female folk group from Czechia representing ‘underdogs’?

Friday 12 May 2023 21:00 , Isobel Lewis

Bringing girl power to Liverpool (even more than the city usually has), Vesna are representing Czechia this year with their feminist anthem “My Sister’s Crown”.

Ahead of the final, Meg Warren Lister spoke to the band about competing in Eurovision 2023.

Who are Vesna, the all-female folk group representing Czechia at Eurovision?

Remembering Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga

Friday 12 May 2023 20:15 , Isobel Lewis

It’s Eurovision eve, so why not spend the evening watching Netflix’s Eurovision film, The Story of Fire Saga?

Released in 2020 and starring Will Ferrell and Rachel McAdams, the musical comedy follows a pair of Icelandic musicians who dream of representing their country at the Eurovision Song Contest.

Ellie Muir breaks out all the real-life Eurovision references in the film:

All the real-life comparisons you missed in Will Ferrell’s Eurovision Netflix film

Meet Lord of the Lost, the head-banging, throat-ripping chart-toppers representing Germany in Eurovision

Friday 12 May 2023 19:30 , Isobel Lewis

Next up in our interview series, we spoke to “Blood and Glitter” band Lord of the Lost to find out how seriously they’re taking Eurovision.

The answer? VERY.

Meet Lord of the Lost, Germany’s head-banging, chart-topping Eurovision entry

Every Eurovision winner ranked from worst to best

Friday 12 May 2023 18:45 , Isobel Lewis

Since Eurovision first began in 1956, there have been 69 winners (due to an infamous four-way tie in 1969).

Those contestants have ranged from the good (Conchita Wurst) to the bad (most of the early 2000s), to the downright ugly (Lordi), and we’ve ranked them all for you.

Who will take home the number one spot? Read on to find out...

Every Eurovision winner ranked

Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website