International song competition run by the EBU since 1956
Labour has surged in multiple polls this week, reaching the lead in More in Common, Survation, and YouGov/Sky figures amid ongoing controversy surrounding Nigel Farage and Reform. Prime Minister Burnham’s leadership is cited as a factor, while Reform faces scrutiny over undeclared donations and a high-profile by-election in Clacton.
Boy George has released a new track, We Will Dance Again, referencing 7 October attacks and defending Israel's actions in Gaza. The song has sparked backlash from supporters of Palestine and drawn commentary from media and figures worldwide. Reports note the track’s Hebrew chorus and questions over its use of AI in production.
Bulgaria has won the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna with Dara's 'Bangaranga' on 17 May; Israel's Noam Bettan has finished second with 'Michelle', taking 343 points to Bulgaria's 516. The final has followed weeks of protests, five broadcaster boycotts and tightened voting rules after concerns about disproportionate promotion.
Eurovision organizers have warned that Israel’s entrant faced a formal reprimand after videos urging fans to vote multiple times were circulated. The incident follows tightened rules aimed at preventing third‑party government campaigns from swaying televote results. Officials say the videos did not alter the final outcome, but it has renewed debate about the contest’s neutrality in light of Israel’s participation.
Five countries have withdrawn from Eurovision 2026 over Israel’s participation in the Gaza war, leaving 35 participating nations. Ireland has sparked controversy by showing a Father Ted episode during the final; the Eurovision voting process faces scrutiny after a NYT report alleging a state-backed campaign to boost Israel. Eurovision chief Green says efforts are ongoing to bring back missing broadcasters; new limits on voting have been introduced.
Finalists including Poland, Greece and Australia have progressed to the Eurovision 2026 Grand Final in Vienna. Hosts and the Eurovision “Big Four” are automatically through, while other countries compete in semi-finals. UK entry Look Mum No Computer will perform in the semi-finals, with full broadcast options available.
Bulgaria has won Eurovision 2026 in Vienna with Dara's Bangaranga, finishing on 516 points. Israel's Noam Bettan has finished second on 343 points amid protests and a five-country boycott over Israel's war in Gaza. Organisers have tightened voting rules after allegations of organised voting for Israel.
Nicholas Kristof’s opinion piece alleging sexual violence by Israeli forces has elicited strong responses from Israeli officials and readers. The Times defends the column, while critics question sourcing and timing ahead of a forthcoming Israeli report on Hamas sexual violence.
Following Viktor Orbán’s defeat, Budapest Pride is going ahead with a largely peaceful march under heavy security. Organisers say the event signals hope for LGBTQ+ rights, while rights groups urge continued vigilance against lingering stigma and policy barriers.
Canada will send an act to the Eurovision Song Contest in 2027, making it the first new participant since Australia in 2015. The European Broadcasting Union says CBC/Radio-Canada will join as a full member, with selection details to be announced later this year. The move expands Eurovision beyond Europe, reflecting the contest’s global audience and Canadian talent.
Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler has died at the age of 75 in a hospital in Portugal after an illness. Her career peaked with Total Eclipse of the Heart, produced with Jim Steinman, and she represented the UK at Eurovision in 2013. She had a decades-long career and was awarded an MBE in 2023.
Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler has died in a hospital in Portugal after an illness. She rose to fame with Total Eclipse of the Heart in 1983 and later hits such as Holding Out for a Hero. She had been hospitalized for emergency intestinal surgery in Faro and was in an induced coma earlier this year; her family confirmed the death.
Bonnie Tyler, the Welsh singer behind Total Eclipse of the Heart, is celebrated for a career spanning decades. The Independent notes the song’s enduring fame; The Scotsman highlights her late-life touring and reflections. The Scotsman piece also recalls hits like Holding Out for a Hero and Now to Edinburgh Castle gigs.
The Total Eclipse of the Heart star has died aged 75 in a Portuguese hospital. Her family has announced funeral details, with a public accompaniment through Swansea and Skewen on 15 and 17 August. Tributes have poured in from peers, including Catherine Zeta-Jones and Rod Stewart, who describe her as a Welsh icon.