Is it time to drop Eurovision?

GoodAfternoonTea

It is like so many things, once the original spirit is lost, then it is time to introduce something new. We won't be watching any more as the programme should be in the name of music and not which country should or should not be in it because of whatever reason. That makes it political. They will never ever recapture the original spirit of 'European' from fifty years ago. Time to send it to Room 101.

Absolutely agree with this.

I do wonder whether there could be a separate competition as part of the cultural Olympics that run alongside the Summer sports ones every four years.

Allira

keepingquiet

It has really become a victim of its own success. I think the event has changed a lot over the years, so it could change again instead of scrapping it all together?

It has really become a victim of its own success
Yes, I think it's become a parody of itself.

I haven't really watched it since the lovely Terry Wogan presented it, with his unique style, gently sending it up.

Just because Eurovision is not so popular here (and judging by the responses here not been popular since about 1965) doesn't mean it isn't greatly loved in other countries.

When will we learn we're not the centre of the Universe?

Eurovision is still something that attempts to bring people of different nations and cultures together in something that isn't sport- but musical entertainment.

I brings in a lot of money and investment into host countries- which is why so many have joined the family.

Yes, it has become an acquired taste these days and over razzmatazzy for my taste but please don't knock it jjust because it isn't like the 'good old days.'

Long live Eurovision!

Over 8m watched it last year in the UK, so it must still be popular. I wonder if it’s just that there is a time in your life when you are over it, which is what is reflecting in these comments.

Casdon

Over 8m watched it last year in the UK, so it must still be popular. I wonder if it’s just that there is a time in your life when you are over it, which is what is reflecting in these comments.

I think so 👍

Camden and grannygravymy children aren’t interested my grown up grandchildren and their friends aren’t interested so I don’t think it’s an age or generational thing I ve never heard any of them go on about it The grandkids and their friends go to the pub to watch big events footie / rugby etc never heard any of them getting together for Eurovision

It will cost us more because other countries mostly Spain won't be contributing.
There will be a shadow over next year's contest as it has divided Europe. Some of the countries who have taken part for many years won't be there.

AGAA4

It will cost us more because other countries mostly Spain won't be contributing.
There will be a shadow over next year's contest as it has divided Europe. Some of the countries who have taken part for many years won't be there.

I hope it evolves and gets back to its roots more, if that isn't an oxymoron... be a shame to lose it I think.

It needs to at least rest for a few years. It's not been a level playing field for ages, you can guess who will vote for whom, most of the time the song is rubbish.
We are one of the biggest contributors to Eurovison and we almost get punished in the voting.

There was something about having to tighten up the regulations because one of the countries last year was involved in cheating.

Never watched it.

You’re not missing much. Long gone are the days when you got groups like Abba. These days they probably wouldn’t have won anyway because people vote for the country which supports their political views.

merlotgran

Why are countries like Israel and Russia allowed to compete when they’re not even in Europe?

Was just going to ask that Merlot. To say nothing of Australia.

Is it time to drop Eurovision?

Long since.

We never watch the show, it has always been overly hyped and politically biased.

It used to be funny in days gone by when Terry Wogan presented the show, but haven't watched since then.

It’s utter tripe.

silverlining48

I think Israel should be refused entry, just as Russia was, but why do both countries take part anyway. Neither are European

Yes, this makes a lot of sense. It would solve a lot of problems if it were to be strictly limited to European countries. But would the United Kingdom qualify? Really no great loss to most of the population if we don't.

I couldn't be bothered watching - it goes on too long - but loads of people love it so each to their own.

If the organisers are so weak and grubbing for favours and Money that they can not decide to exclude Israel a country soaking in war crimes then the whole horror show should be cancelled.

DEFINITELY....its turned into a load of rubbish, it seems to be all about the outrageous performers and not the music...

Haven’t watched for decades, couldn’t stand Terry Wogan. I don’t think the UK should be paying more than other countries (didn’t know that was a thing), seems unfair? I’m glad Ireland will boycott (I’m Irish), but when things like this start to happen it’s time to pull the plug.

I suggest that every country should have a song sung in their own language. Kiss of death. to Eurovision I think

kittylester

merlotgran

Why are countries like Israel and Russia allowed to compete when they’re not even in Europe?

Was just going to ask that Merlot. To say nothing of Australia.

A European sports competition had Israeli competitors. Egyptians said they should be allowed in also. Is Iceland geographically part of Europe.?

To me political voting has crept in. Sam Ryder should have won but the massive win went to Ukraine. Anyone remember the Ukrainian song? Australia allowed to compete and is Israel actually in Europe. Haven't watched it for years.

I wonder how many of the 163 million viewers are in Britain? Personally I’d pull us out of it once and for all.

Oh yes please !
it’s served it’s time on TV , plus we are a laughing stock in other ways .