The Eurovision Song Contest, once a celebration of music and unity across Europe, has increasingly become a source of frustration and disappointment for viewers. Based on public comments on Twitter and coverage in the news last night, several key issues have eroded the contest’s appeal.
1. Politics Overshadowing Music
Eurovision’s claim to be a non-political event has been roundly contradicted by recent controversies, most notably the uproar over Israel’s participation in 2025. The inclusion of Israel sparked widespread protests, with pro-Palestinian demonstrators disrupting rehearsals and Spanish broadcaster RTVE airing a pro-Palestine message during the live final1. Social media exploded with debate, and the hashtag “#EurovisionRTVE” trended as viewers discussed the politicization of the contest. Many feel Eurovision is no longer about music, but about which countries are allowed to participate and under what circumstances, drawing uncomfortable parallels with Russia’s ban after the Ukraine invasion16.
2. Questionable Voting Integrity
This year, the voting process itself came under heavy fire. For the first time, public voting opened before any of the 26 finalists had performed their songs. Viewers on X (formerly Twitter) were quick to slam this change, arguing it undermined the fairness of the competition. Comments included: “Voting is open! But we haven’t even heard the songs yet?” and “Opening voting before hearing the songs really reinforces the political or neighborly voting trend”4. The traditional suspenseful moment-“Europe, start voting now!”-was lost, replaced by confusion and cynicism about the contest’s integrity4.
3. Lack of Musical Quality
Critics and viewers alike have bemoaned the decline in musical standards. According to a review in The Telegraph, “I honestly don’t think I heard a single song that I would rate as genuinely special in that whole giddily entertaining farrago of an entertainment spectacular.” The contest is now seen by many as a “comedy gladiatorial contest, with a bit of music on top,” rather than a showcase for great pop songs5. Despite its long history, Eurovision has produced only one universally beloved winner-ABBA-highlighting a lack of enduring musical impact5.
4. Manufactured Atmosphere and Censorship
Another sore point is the alleged censorship of negative audience reactions. During Israel’s semi-final performance, viewers accused the TV broadcast of artificially drowning out or filtering boos from the audience. Clips shared online suggested significant booing at the venue, which was barely audible on TV. This led to accusations that Eurovision organizers are manipulating the broadcast to maintain a facade of unity and positivity, further alienating skeptical viewers6.
5. Repetitive Disappointments for Major Countries
For fans in the UK and other “big five” countries, Eurovision has become a yearly exercise in disappointment. The UK’s entry, despite positive reviews, finished 19th with “nul points” from the public for the second year running3. Many British viewers now see the contest as a rigged spectacle where their votes and entries have little real impact, fueling apathy and resentment.
6. Social Media Backlash and Viewer Fatigue
The reaction on social media has been overwhelmingly negative. BBC viewers described the 2025 contest as “cringe” just moments into the live final2. Many lamented the loss of Eurovision’s original spirit, with comments ranging from “It’s just not fun anymore” to “Eurovision is now more about controversy than music.” The fatigue is palpable, with long-time fans questioning whether the contest is worth the four-hour commitment.
Conclusion
The Eurovision Song Contest has lost its way. Once a joyful celebration of European diversity and creativity, it is now mired in political controversy, questionable voting practices, declining musical quality, and a manufactured atmosphere that insults viewers’ intelligence. Public sentiment on Twitter and in last night’s news coverage makes it clear: for many, Eurovision is no longer worth