The first semi-final of the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 took place in Vienna, Austria, featuring a surprise cameo by veteran British pop star Boy George. The 64-year-old Culture Club singer joined San Marino's entrant Senhit on stage to perform the song "Superstar," which he co-wrote. Midway through the performance, Boy George appeared on a silver throne, wearing a black suit with a silver hat, as Senhit enthusiastically shouted his name.
San Marino eliminated
Despite the star-studded performance, San Marino failed to advance to the final. They were eliminated along with Portugal, Georgia, Montenegro, and Estonia. The first semi-final saw ten countries secure their spots in the grand finale: Greece, Finland, Belgium, Sweden, Moldova, Israel, Serbia, Croatia, Lithuania, and Poland.
Automatic qualifiers and host nation
Italy, Germany, France, and the United Kingdom automatically qualify for the final as members of the "Big Four," the countries that contribute the most financially to Eurovision each year. The UK and France will perform in the second semi-final on Thursday. Austria, as the host nation, also has a guaranteed place in the final.
Upcoming semi-final
The second semi-final is scheduled for Thursday, where the remaining countries will compete for the last spots in the final. The grand final will take place on Saturday, with 26 countries vying for the coveted Eurovision trophy.
