The Top 10 WTF Moments of Eurovision 2017
Photo by Brendan Hoffman / Getty Images
Once a year since 1956, Europe has gathered together to celebrate the cheesier-than-fondue fest that is the Eurovision Song Contest. (Need more backstory on the event? Read this more-specific cheat sheet on the spectacle that’s fit for feathers, belters, and dreamers.) Last year was the event’s first appearance on American television. And things have only snowballed in the last 365 days.
Strangely enough, this year’s top prize and hosting duties for 2018 was taken by Portugal with an understated ballad sung by Salvador Sobra. The singer’s performance was heavy on backstory—a song written by his sister Luisa, a heart condition that kept the singer at home until the last possible moment, a long pause before realizing he had won (because who can understand the event’s complex scoring?!). What it lacked, however, was theatrics. But thankfully, other countries picked up the WTF slack. From dancing animals to genre mashups that no one asked for, here are our top 10 favorite moments of Eurovision 2017.
1. Sweden Celebrating Its Best Export—Hotties
Photo by Michael Campanella / Getty Images
Look Sweden, we get it: You’re all really, really, really, ridiculously good looking. But just in case we dare forget it for a moment, the country sent Robin Bengtsson and a pack of supermodels (on treadmills no less!) to remind us. We can’t go on when you’re all so freaking beautiful…but we’re going to try.
2. White Out
Photo by Brendan Hoffman / Getty Images
The theme of the evening, “Celebrate Diversity,” was repeatedly announced by the hosts…who were three white men.
3. Italy Going Ape
Photo by Brendan Hoffman / Getty Images
Francesco Gabbani’s Italian language song “Occidentali’s Karma” featured symbols familiar to anyone who has ever taken a yoga class…and a breakdancing ape. Because, well, other than confusing the people drinking at home we’re not actually sure. But don’t worry. The simian stage guest was wearing a bow tie, because dressing for the occasion is crucial.
