Soon after the announcement of the cancellation of this year’s contest, ERT were one of the first broadcasters to confirm that their 2020 artist would be returning next year. In July, we learned that her entry was in development.
Back in March, Greek public broadcaster ERT released a press statement to address the news about the EBU’s decision to cancel this year’s contest. In the statement, the broadcaster expressed their intentions to continue their cooperation with Stefania for next year.
According to Eurovision Fun, Stefania will be submitting at least four potential entries to ERT. They will then select the final entry from this selection. Although originally slated for a November release, it is now understood that the song will be released later than this. However, the door is still open for a public selection of some kind, as it has not been confirmed if the broadcaster will be selecting the song internally or with public involvement.
They also revealed that early next month, Stefania will travel to Greece to record a selection of songs created by Dimitris Kontopoulos and ARCADE. She will also be speaking to Greek media during the visit, which may provide more details about the selection process.
Eurovision 2021: So far
Over the past few months, a number of broadcasters have confirmed whether they will be keeping their 2020 artists for next year’s contest. Whilst most have confirmed that they will be sticking with their 2020 selection, the likes of France and Cyprus will be sending different acts next year. So far, the 18 confirmed artists are:
- Australia – Montaigne
- Austria – Vincent Bueno
- Azerbaijan – Efendi
- Belgium – Hooverphonic
- Bulgaria – VICTORIA
- Czech Republic – Benny Cristó
- Georgia – Tornike Kipiani
- Greece – Stefania
- Israel – Eden Alene
- Latvia – Samanta Tīna
- Malta – Destiny
- Netherlands – Jeangu Macrooy
- Romania – Roxen
- San Marino – Senhit
- Slovenia – Ana Soklič
- Spain – Blas Cantó
- Switzerland – Gjon’s Tears
- Ukraine – GO_A
We also know that national selections will be going ahead in Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Lithuania, Norway and Sweden. Meanwhile, Armenia, Cyprus, Ireland, Germany and Serbia have confirmed participation but have yet to confirm their participant.
Next year’s semi-finals will take place on the 18th and 20th of May, whilst the Grand Final will take place on 22nd May. Rotterdam Ahoy Arena will serve as the venue of the 2021 contest.
In an unprecedented twist, the EBU also recently announced that pre-recorded backing vocals will be allowed at the 2021 contest. They have also revealed that they are preparing for two scenarios for the contest next year.
Are you excited to hear the final entry? Are you hoping for an open selection of some kind? Let us know! Be sure to stay updated by following @ESCXTRA on Twitter, @escxtra on Instagram and liking our Facebook page for the latest updates! Also, be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel to see our reactions to the news in the upcoming months.
