The Grand Final of this year's Eurovision Song Contest is under way in Austria, marking the competition's 70th anniversary. For the interval act, eight iconic Eurovision stars are returning to the stage for what organisers describe as "an electrifying musical journey through seven decades of Eurovision magic".
Among the returning icons is Alexander Rybak, who won the contest in 2009 with his song 'Fairytale', earning 387 points and breaking the previous record. The Norwegian artist later wrote songs for other countries and voiced a character in the Norwegian dub of How to Train Your Dragon.
Ukrainian comedian Andriy Mykhailovych Danylko, better known as his drag persona Verka Serduchka, returns after finishing second in 2007 with 'Dancing Lasha Tumbai'. Serduchka has since appeared at Eurovision four times, including as a spokesperson and performer in later years.
Finnish singer Erika Vikman, who competed in last year's contest, returns this year with her song 'ICH KOMME', which she described as "a celebration of female pleasure, empowerment, and liberation". Despite earning 392 points, the win went to Austria's JJ. Vikman said the experience grew her as an artist and thanked her fans.
Also returning is the Finnish metal band Lordi, whose performance of 'Hard Rock Hallelujah' in their horror-film attire remains memorable. Lordi's win in 2006 ended Finland's long struggle with the "nul points" curse, which had become a source of national trauma.
The interval act promises to be a highlight of the evening, celebrating Eurovision's rich history with these beloved performers.
