Eurovision 2023: Three Stars From the Semi-finals Who May Just Win It All

By Devin Ibanez & Fergus Wade

This week, my boyfriend and I had the honor of attending the Eurovision 2023 Semi-finals this week for the first time. It was incredible. This year’s competition has the potential to blow last year’s iteration out of the water!

Just within this semi-final show, there were three performers who showed that without a doubt they have what it takes to win the Eurovision crown. You may be thinking, what does this random American rugby player know about Eurovision and why should I listen to him?

To that I say, not very much. However, these performances were undeniably elite (and I had a certified British Eurovision fan to corroborate with). In no particular order, here are our top 3 picks to watch in the final:

Unicorn: Noa Kirel - Israel

The video speaks for itself, an electric live performer with catchy song that stood out as the night went on. Noa is the epitome of a pop star – stunningly beautiful with incredible vocals and phenomenal physicality. Their performance was simply on another level, and I cannot wait to see them shine in the Eurovision Final. I am a believer in the power of a unicorn.

Cha Cha Cha - Käärijä – Finland

Another song that will burrow its way into your brain for weeks and months to follow. The crowd was absolutely losing their minds during this performance. It is a clear fan favorite for its easy lyrics, absurd choreography, and the lead singer’s eccentric personality. The world of Eurovision will never be the same after they break out their human centipede-esque choreography. If this doesn’t end up in the top three, then Eurovision has failed us all.

Tattoo – Loreen – Sweden

What this song lacks in catchiness and camp choreography, it makes up in sheer star power. Loreen is well known in the Eurovision world for their song Euphoria which took home the win in 2012. While this song will ultimately be compared to that, as a standalone performance, Tattoo holds its own. Her voice was a masterclass in live vocals and the set she uses helps her stand out against the rest. Although not our favorite of the night, Loreen is undoubtedly a contender for the win and is heavily favored in the prediction polls.

Who were your favorites from the semi-finals? Do you think any of these acts have what it takes to win?