In a surprising development just weeks before the 70th Eurovision Song Contest, SBS has confirmed a major hosting change for its Australian coverage. Tony Armstrong, who co-hosted last year's event, will not be travelling to Vienna this May due to what the broadcaster describes as a 'scheduling clash' with other professional commitments.
A Sudden Departure
SBS made the unexpected announcement on Thursday, expressing gratitude for Armstrong's contributions while revealing the logistical issue preventing his participation. 'Last year's co-host, Tony Armstrong, is no longer able to join this year's event due to a scheduling clash with other projects,' the network stated formally.
The broadcaster went on to praise Armstrong's previous work, saying 'SBS thanks Tony for the energy, humour and heart he brought to the 2025 coverage and looks forward to seeing his signature sparkle return to the network in the coming months.'
The Replacement Arrives
SBS moved swiftly to secure a replacement, tapping Voyager frontman Danny Estrin to step into the commentary role alongside drag superstar Courtney Act. Estrin, whose band represented Australia at Eurovision in 2023, enthusiastically announced his new position on Instagram.
'2026, baby I'm back! Not as a fan, not as a performer, but as a special guest commentator alongside the fabulous Courtney Act,' he posted, generating excitement among Eurovision enthusiasts.
Courtney Act's Reaction
Meanwhile, Courtney Act appeared momentarily speechless about her co-host's departure but quickly shifted focus to champion Australia's Eurovision representative. She took to social media to highlight Delta Goodrem's upcoming performance, posting 'The future was always clear. Delta Goodrem → Eurovision' alongside symbolic imagery.
Australia's Eurovision Hopes
The hosting news coincides with preparations for Delta Goodrem's highly anticipated Eurovision debut. The veteran performer was officially announced as Australia's representative in March, expressing deep honour at the selection.
'I'm so honoured to represent Australia on one of the biggest and most iconic music stages in the world at Eurovision,' Goodrem stated. 'As a singer-songwriter, music has been my lifelong passion. I've always loved the creativity, individuality, and joy Eurovision brings, connecting and uniting people across the globe through music; the universal language.'
She concluded with determined optimism: 'I can't wait to arrive in Vienna and make Australia proud.'
Creative Director's Confidence
Australia's Eurovision creative director Paul Clarke expressed unwavering confidence in Goodrem's selection, describing her as a 'once-in-a-generation artist' whose talents make her 'the perfect choice to represent Australia and eclipse the competition at the 70th anniversary of Eurovision in Vienna.'
Clarke further elaborated: 'Her elegant songwriting and unmatched vocal ability make her the perfect choice to represent Australia and eclipse the competition at the 70th anniversary of Eurovision in Vienna. Her song is a bold step towards the next stage of her worldwide career, and we are excited to bring her vision to life on the stage in May.'
A Legacy of Australian Representation
Goodrem joins an esteemed list of Australian artists who have previously represented the nation at Eurovision, including:
- Guy Sebastian
- Jessica Mauboy
- Kate Miller Heidke
As the May event approaches, Australian viewers will now experience a fresh commentary dynamic with Danny Estrin's musical expertise complementing Courtney Act's vibrant personality, while the nation's hopes rest firmly on Delta Goodrem's shoulders during this milestone 70th anniversary celebration in Vienna.
