Hollywood A-lister makes surprise cameo at Eurovision Song Contest 2026

This year marks the Eurovision Song Contest 70th anniversary, and the competition has been pulling out all the stops to celebrate the landmark milestone.

During tonight's semi-final, the show opened with an emotional tribute, demonstrating the seven-decade history of Eurovision through a film portraying the life of a couple set against the backdrop of the world’s biggest live music show.

But that wasn't all! Prior to Italy's performance, the show showed messages from former contestants and fans of the song contest, reflecting on what Eurovision meant to them.

And there was one pretty famous fan and contestant (kind of), as Will Ferrell made a surprise cameo during the video messages.

In a short clip, Ferrell said: "One word for Eurovision? Let me think... what could it be? I know, joy!"

Interestingly, Will Ferrell has an amusing history with Eurovision having starred and co-wrote musical comedy film Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga.

The Netflix movie follows Icelandic singers Lars (Ferrell) and Sigrit (Rachel McAdams) as they are given the chance to represent their country in the Eurovision Song Contest.

Ferrell is a fan of the song contest, having attended the 2018 and 2019 editions to create the characters and story.

In recent news, it was confirmed that the comedy would be turning into a musical on Broadway.

Speaking of the project, Ferrell said: "We are more than excited to bring Eurovision to Broadway. The stage musical is a perfect place to continue our celebration of all the things we love about this amazing and unifying song competition.”

Director Alex Timbers added: “Will Ferrell and Harper Steele are my comedy heroes and when I first saw their joyful movie ‘Eurovision’ during the pandemic, it buoyed spirits during a very dark time. With this stage adaptation, I can’t wait to bring that same mix of heart, spectacle, irreverence, and awe to audiences across the world."

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.

This year, a number of countries will boycott the contest following the European Broadcasting Union’s decision not to expel Israel from the competition.

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.

The EBU said in a statement: "A large majority of members agreed that there was no need for a further vote on participation and that the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 should proceed as planned, with the additional safeguards in place."

Following this, Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Iceland confirmed they would not participate in this year’s Eurovision.

Irish broadcaster RTÉ said: "RTÉ feels that Ireland’s participation remains unconscionable given the appalling loss of lives in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis there, which continues to put the lives of so many civilians at risk."

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.

The Eurovision Song Contest 2026 final will take place on Saturday 16 May 2026.

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.