What to know and how to watch

After an extended 12 months, the wait is over — the Eurovision Song Contest is lastly returning to our screens.

The annual extravaganza pits Europe’s nations towards one another as 25 finalists battle it out on the stage for the final word prize: being topped the competition’s winner.

This yr’s contest is anticipated to closely emphasize the scenario unfolding in Ukraine, after Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion on Feb. 24.

Among the 25 nations acting on the massive stage in Italy is Ukraine, which is considered a favorite to win.

Below, we remind you of every little thing you could know forward of the ultimate.

What is Eurovision?

The Eurovision Song Contest first hit our screens approach again when in 1956. It’s been happening yearly ever since, aside from 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic was in full swing.

Each yr, nations of the European Broadcast Union go head-to-head in a bid to be topped winners.

This yr marks the 66th Eurovision, with a whopping 40 nations battling for the gold.

As effectively as viewers watching at dwelling, every taking part nation is allowed to forged three votes for one more nation.

Given the title “Eurovision,” it’s honest to count on to solely see European nations participate. But you may be stunned to be taught that the European Broadcast Union does embody just a few nations that aren’t situated wherever close to Europe.

Australia, for instance, was invited to carry out in 2015, and its look proved to be so welcome that it’s been invited again yearly since.

How can I watch?

Peacock TV is about to broadcast Eurovision stay for the second yr in a row.

Saturday’s grand last will air at 3 p.m. ET.

Who gained final yr, and who’re notable previous winners?

The winners of the earlier yr get to host the Eurovision last annually, which means that Saturday’s grand showcase will happen in Italy, because of Måneskin’s epic 2021 win.

The Italian band knocked it out of the park with its rock n’ roll efficiency, which noticed Italy be topped as winners and subsequently carry the ultimate to dwelling soil.

Måneskin is anticipated to carry out its new track, “Supermodel,” throughout Saturday’s last.

Eurovision has birthed many well-known names and faces since kickstarting in 1956.

Most notably, ABBA, who represented Sweden in 1974, have been topped Eurovision winners with their plain hit “Waterloo.”

In 1988, Celine Dion gained Eurovision after representing Switzerland, regardless of being Canadian.

This is the third Eurovision hosted in Italy, because the nation beforehand hosted in 1965 and in 1991.

Ukraine has gained Eurovision twice since its first look within the contest 19 years in the past.

Russia was banned from participating on this yr’s occasion.