Eurovision Song Contest — Season 65
United by Music
About this season
The Eurovision Song Contest 2021 takes place in Rotterdam. The Dutch city was due to host the Contest in 2020 before the event was cancelled due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Episodes (3)
1. Semi Final 1
5.0Aired 18 May 2021 • 126 min
2. Semi Final 2
5.2Aired 20 May 2021 • 126 min
3. Grand Final
5.3Aired 22 May 2021 • 236 min
Following the cancellation of the 2020 contest due to the COVID-19 crisis, the Eurovision Song Contest returned in 2021, hosted in Rotterdam. Extensive preparations ensured the show went on with a limited audience and contingency plans, such as pre-recorded 'Live-on-Tape' performances for all artists. These measures were put to the test. Australia, unable to travel, was the only country to use its taped performance. Iceland's rehearsal footage was used for their live show appearances after a delegation member tested positive for COVID-19; the group still finished in 4th place. Italian alt-rock band Måneskin won with their song 'Zitti E Buoni', which became a global streaming hit. The contest's return was a huge success, attracting 183 million viewers and achieving massive online engagement, particularly with younger audiences. The slogan from the cancelled 2020 event, #OpenUp, was carried over.