The show opened with a journey through time, demonstrating that the seven-decade history of Eurovision represents '70 Years of Love', a film that portrays the life of a couple set against the backdrop of the world’s biggest live music show.
The song was performed when the city of Vienna first hosted the Contest in 1967 by Vicky Leandros, who returned to the stage after 54 years.
Fans have been reacting to the heartwarming opening on social media, with one user writing: "Well Eurovision had me in tears in the first five minutes of the first semi-final. What a lovely look back at the history of the competition."
View oEmbed on the source websiteOne user penned: "I will say this, Austria is already doing better in terms of staging and presentation than they did in 2015."
View oEmbed on the source website"Omg what an emotional opening," another user said, while another wrote: "The opening clip to Eurovision semis was so cute and emotional."
View oEmbed on the source websiteIn the commentator's box tonight (12 May) are Angela Scanlon and Rylan Clark, the latter of whom acknowledged that only 35 countries will be taking part.
The Eurovision Song Contest has faced significant criticism over its decision to allow Israel to take part in the event due to the ongoing war in Gaza.
At the EBU general assembly in December 2025, a vote was held to introduce new rules that would stop governments and third parties from disproportionately promoting songs to influence voters. No vote was held on Israel’s participation.
Following this, Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Iceland confirmed they would not participate in this year’s Eurovision.
The BBC, which broadcasts the competition in the UK, has said it supports the decision made by the EBU. "This is about enforcing the rules of the EBU and being inclusive," it said in a statement.
You can also check out the full list of Eurovision winners and how many times the UK has won Eurovision.
Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Hence then, the article about eurovision 2026 opens with emotional tribute as vicky leandros returns to the song contest was published today ( ) and is available on Radio Times ( Middle East ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
Read More Details
Finally We wish PressBee provided you with enough information of ( Eurovision 2026 opens with emotional tribute as Vicky Leandros returns to the song contest )
Also on site :