“Saturday Night Live” recap: Host Matt Damon returns as Brett Kavanaugh alongside Aziz Ansari's Kash Patel

Conehead Nation — it'sSNLin Review: the penultimate episode of season 51!

We haveMatt Damonback in 8H, folks — he first appeared onSaturday Night Livein 2001 with a smallMango-related cameo, then hosted for the first time in 2002 during the season premiere. He later made another brief appearance in a digital short back in season 37, before returning a few times in 2018, both as host and as Brett Kavanaugh.

I am joined tonight by former SNL cast memberVictoria Jackson. She has a new book out,now available on Amazon. She says she hasn't seen all of Damon's films "because I get bored during 'running fast/bullet shooting/minimal dialogue' movies, but my husband, the ex-cop, loves theBourneseries.Good Will Huntingwas too mathematical for me." She also adds regarding tonight that "Matt doesn't project 'funny,' but if the writers do a good job, he will be funny. He has the timing and the looks. I respect his moral lifestyle and family values."

Meanwhile, tomorrow, of course, is Mother's Day. We know the show loves a goodmom sketch! Jackson shares: "Mother's Day, when I was onSNL, was a wonderful experience because my mom was in a sketch with me. They dressed us as identical, blonde twins and gave us both ditzy lines. They shot our scene at 1 a.m., and my mom, who doesn't seek the spotlight anyway, was so tired and bored she almost left the building to go sleep in her hotel. It was funny to me because most people would die to be in anSNLsketch. She'd rather sleep! My dad was the showbiz guy."

Cold Open

We are back at a "sneaky bar" in Georgetown — the iconic Martin's Tavern — with Colin Jost's Pete Hegseth. He is joined by Brett Kavanaugh (Damon), who is just as wild. The Supreme Court Justice laments the male loneliness epidemic; he does not have many drinking pals in the administration to go out with…guys like William Cosby!

Kash Patel (Aziz Ansari), the FBI director, shows up to assure him, boasting about his bourbon. So, season 50 is ending with celeb cameos in the cold open. I don't love Jost's star turn here, but at least he's an actual cast member. Ah, SEO! The sketch ends with the three dumb, fun-loving friends performing Chumbawamba's "Tubthumping."

Jackson thinks this cold open "was funny for people who closely follow politics! And Matt Damon was funny, and the casting was spot on! The Kash Patel face with the eyes was perfect!" Yes!

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Monologue

Damon is here to promote a movie coming out in nine weeks! Christopher Nolan'sThe Odyssey!

Damon acknowledges it is almost Mother's Day. With Spirit Airlines now gone, it turns out the show couldn't spring for the cast moms to fly in. Nice appearance by Jack Bensinger here, inquiring about Marcello's mom! Instead, Damon makes a "personal" video gift message for the moms out there, teasing the chance to see his new movie in theaters… in nine weeks. Jackson agrees, this was "funny! Marcello's mom!"

"Godzilla Movie"

We are watching the Movie Channel, one of the many Godzilla movies. The description of the monster's size and actions across the ocean is causing the ship's commander (Damon) to spit-take at his subordinate, Officer Harris (Mikey Day)... multiple times. "Lock in people," he says, requesting lumpy yogurt. He gets it and begins chowing down, as Harris confirms the authenticity of a video showing Godzilla's destruction.

The admiral wants everyone hydrated, just in time for the entire crew to sip water when a high-stakes message is translated from Japan. Oh boy! Jackson says, "Good ending. Godzilla spit take!! Usually, deadpan ex-cop husband said, 'Ya see, that was a good skit. That was actually funny. There was nothing political in there.'"

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"Mom Movie Trailer"

A movie devoid of conflict or dramatic tension! Moms have enough stress, so this movie has dialogue and a clean house… and Matt Damon as the husband. This movie trailer spoof was fun! Check it out.

Jackson has the same verdict: "FUNNY. Damon saying 'I noticed your massive necklace from the stage' and her ripping off her shoulder fabric and revealing her shoulder skin!"

"Tough Guys"

Three neighborhood tough guys are barbecuing with beers at a block party. They share stories about their toughness… with the punchline: they get their ass kicked. Pretty funny: each one unwittingly laments that everyone wants to be a tough guy, then tells a story to illustrate it, only to show the opposite. Their priest, their wives, their kids, elderly men in wheelchairs — all trying to be tough, successfully kicking their ass. Great work by Damon, Kenan Thompson, and even Marcello. Might be some of Marcello's best sketch work, honestly. Reminds me of the Billy Crystal-Christopher Guest "I hate when that happens" guys.

Jackson's "husband likes these tough guy sketches. He never watchesSNL,and he's laughing out loud… 'Gummy bear in the dog cage in the basement' — funny."

"Tidy Care Crystals"

It's Tidy Care Kitty Litter! Ever want to know how your cat is feeling? This cat litter product has color-changing powers, the "helpful" omniscient narrator voice explains. But is the human son peeing in the litter box? The voice keeps intruding, turning the seemingly happy married couple against each other. This is increasingly intense and brilliant. Jackson concurs: "FUNNY. Love it. Smart."

Noah Kahan performs "The Great Divide"

Through windows, Noah Kahan plays this single off his new album, which marked Kahan's solo comeback after nearly three years out of the spotlight.

The music video premiered in partnership with Mastercard during a commercial break at the Grammys in February. We are midway through the show, and Jackson thinks, "This is the best show since Nate Bargatze's show! Maybe even better!"

Weekend Update

Marco - Rubio! Kash - Patel! Jeffrey! Jokes include hantavirus, teacher appreciation week, WNBA, Patel's homemade whiskey, and Little Rascals.

TheMet Gala happened this week. It's a night of fashion and fun. Conservative commentator Tucker Carlson returns to comment on the outfits. Nice to see Jeremy Culhane back at the Update desk. I believe he was cut recently in a previous episode. "What are we doing?" indeed! Jackson says Culhane's "Tucker Carlson was pretty good, he got his high tremulous laugh down and calling Heidi Klum's Met Gala outfit the 'Statue of Liberty in a Burka' was funny." Overall, she notes, "Update was refreshingly light on the Trump-bashing".

Next, military officials recently refused to confirm the use of kamikaze dolphins in Iran. To comment: two dolphins (Day, Hernandez). Jost is shocked that this is real. He asks what they do before they get deployed. The answer? Deep ocean kinks. Water sex puns commence. "Let's shift gears…" says Jost, before shifting tothe ferry he owns with Pete Davidson.

Jane Wickline also comes out to comment on common tardiness. She has a song dedicated to everyone who's waited on her. It's less an apology than her doubling down — looking at her phone matters more than other people's time! "40 minutes with an ice cream cone!"

Story developing...

Read the original article onEntertainment Weekly

byJastin Mags

in

May 10, 2026

“Saturday Night Live” recap: Host Matt Damon returns as Brett Kavanaugh alongside Aziz Ansari's Kash Patel

Conehead Nation — it'sSNLin Review: the penultimate episode of season 51! We haveMatt Damonback in 8H, folks — he first appea...

Read More

Taylor Swift rocks lacy silk top and skirt for romantic date night with Travis Kelce

Taylor Swift stepped out in style for herLondon date nightwith Travis Kelce on Friday night.

The pop star, 36, sizzled in a steamy all black-ensemble featuring theSTAUD Evangeline Silk Top($325) and theJuliet Skirt from Fleur du Mal($298).

For accessories, she paired the set with theToteme Slim Leather Coat,which retails for $4000, theRabanne 1969 Leather Shoulder Bag(which is on sale for $989), and a pair ofCeline Ava Sandals($1,050).

She wore a vintage Chanel necklace for jewelry along with hermassive mine cut diamond engagement ring.

Her NFL star fiancé, 36, was photographed walking at her side in a brown two piece set. He finished his look with a pair of plaid patterned shoes and sunglasses.

Photos showed the lovebirds holding hands as they made their way to visit Gordon Ramsay’s new restaurant, Lucky Cat.

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The Friday night outing was only the most recent stop on their London tour.

On Thursday night, the stars were seenleaving Harold Pinter Theatrewith British cinematographer and long-time collaborator of the singer, Rina Yang.

The pair was pictured holding hands as they made their departure through a back door of the theater after they caught a stage performance of “Romeo & Juliet.”

The Grammy winner sported a stunning floral midi dress with strappy black heels and a long black coat, while Kelce matched in a black tee paired with a Louis Vuitton gray suit jacket and slacks.

Prior to their night on the town, the couple was spotted leaving Indian cuisine hotspot Gymkhana.

They reportedly ended their night at the Bo Tree hotel where they joined Poppy Delevigne for her 40th birthday celebration.

byJastin Mags

in

May 10, 2026

Taylor Swift rocks lacy silk top and skirt for romantic date night with Travis Kelce

Taylor Swift stepped out in style for herLondon date nightwith Travis Kelce on Friday night. The pop star, 36, sizzled in a steam...

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Bafta TV awards 2026: A titanically tepid ceremony

After controversy at thefilm Baftasover the broadcasting of a racial slur, the last thing the BBC needed was another flashpoint at the television awards. All involved can rest easy because not only was the ceremony lacking in contentious moments – for long stretches it seemed to be missing a pulse altogether.

Taskmaster’s Greg Davies was the new host, taking over from Alan Cumming, who has vowed to never again helm the Baftas following the fall-out over the film awards (which he also presented). Davies was off to a respectable start with a funny pre-recorded sketch in which he introduced an eye-rolling teenager to the joys of British television down the decades – the elephant pooing on Blue Peter, people shouting at each other onEastEndersand so forth.

But it was a different story once he stepped on stage for the live broadcast (not actually live, of course – the BBC was airing it with a delay and with new protocols to ensure there was no repeat of the shambles at the film Baftas). Nervous throughout, Davies had the air of someone happy to simply get through the evening. His jitteriness deprived the two-hour ceremony of the one essential for an awards show: a sense of fun.

Instead of fun, there was lots of silliness. Too much, it quickly became clear. Many of the celebrities dragged up to dole out awards had decided to seize the spotlight with less than hilarious results. Comic actresses Lucy Punch and Philippa Dunne seemed to be improvising a scene from their seriesAmandalandon the spot – to tepid guffaws from a generally stony room. Next camenew Harry Potteractor Paapa Essiedu, who thought it would be hilarious to refer to his co-star Nick Frost by the name of his Rowling-verse character, Hagrid – with a pay-off about as funny as a real-life game of Quidditch.

Hollywood glamourwas sprinkled courtesy ofSeverance’s Adam Scott and rapper-turned-actress Awkwafina, who turned up to present awards. They were mere warm-ups for Tinsel Town comedian Seth Rogen, who won Best International Show forThe Studioand approached the Bafta podium like someone who had tumbled through the back of a wardrobe into a parallel dimension.

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“This award show is so cool,” he said, before pointing to Davies, who was watching from a corner of the stage. “I love that this guy sits there in a little chair.” Rogen then gestured towards veteran actress Celia Imrie, whoseflatulence onThe Celebrity Traitorsprovided the evening with one of its running gags. “I assume this woman is very skilled and talented. All I know is she farted on a reality show.”

It was not the last time the Traitors was name-dropped. The Claudia Winkleman backstabbing festival was one of the evening’s duo of big winners (it scooped two awards). The other wasAdolescence, which continued the victory lap which it has seemingly been on since the invention of television itself.

Ethereal pop star Aurora provided the evening with one of its emotive high points as she performed her haunting ballad,Through the Eyes of a Child– from the score to, yes,Adolescence. She was soundtracking an in memoriam section which marked the passing of Prunella Scales, Desmond Morris, James Van Der Beek and others – though there was no mention ofSchitt’s CreekstarCatherine O’Hara, to whom Studio co-star Rogen had paid tribute.

The tone was often jarring. Amid all the wackiness and bantering, rapper-turned-DIY expert Tinie Tempah was the rare award presenter to maintain a straight face – just as well as he was about to hand Simon Schama an accolade for a documentary about the Holocaust. Meanwhile, a skit in which news presenter Kirsty Wark was rude to Davies landed oddly – her “fake” annoyance containing flashes of genuine irritation.

Tellingly, many of the more serious awards were relegated to a highlights section. They included the current affairs category, which was won byGaza: Doctors Under Attack, broadcast by Channel 4 after the BBC declined to air it. “Given you dropped our film, will you drop us from the Bafta screening later tonight?”, wondered Ben de Pear, the founder of the production company that made the film. He got his answer – the comments were broadcast but during a montage that was over almost before it began.

The message repeated from the podium was that television has no rival when it comes to the shared viewing experience. It’s a fair point. How ironic that it was made during a titanically tepid ceremony that would have had many viewers reach for their phones and scrolling furiously.

byJastin Mags

in

May 10, 2026

Bafta TV awards 2026: A titanically tepid ceremony

After controversy at thefilm Baftasover the broadcasting of a racial slur, the last thing the BBC needed was another flashpoint at the ...

Read More

David Allan Coe, maverick country star known for his wild life and working-class anthems

David Allan Coe, who has died aged 86, was a maverick country music singer known for his wild tales of prison life and working-class anthems You Never Even Called Me by My Name and Take This Job and Shove It; he was a pioneer of the “outlaw” movement which bristled against Nashville’s conservatism and conformism.

A broad, physically intimidating man who could often rub people up the wrong way, Coe arrived in the Tennessee city in 1967, keen to make it as a country music star despite being a self-declared “long-haired redneck” (though the flowing mane that was a feature of his later stage shows was a 3ft-long blonde wig).

He lived for a time in a hearse, perpetually parked outside the Ryman Auditorium, where he would don elaborate rhinestone outfits and a Lone Ranger-style mask and busk for gullible passers-by who believed he had just come off stage.

Six years after arriving in Music City, Coe hit the big time thanks to Tanya Tucker’s cover of Would You Lay With Me (in a Field of Stone), which went to No 1 in the country charts. Coe signed with Columbia and released his major-label debut, The Mysterious Rhinestone Cowboy, in 1974. It included I Still Sing the Old Songs, and a cover ofGuy Clark’s country staple Desperados Waiting for the Train (later popularised by the Highwaymen supergroup consisting of Coe’s fellow outlawsWaylon Jennings, Willie Nelson,Johnny CashandKris Kristofferson).

But it was the album Once Upon a Rhyme, released a year later, that gave Coe his imperishable hit, You Never Even Called Me by My Name. Written by Steve Goodman andJohn Prine, it was a self-knowing send-up of honky tonk stereotypes involving trucks, beer and dysfunctional families: “I was drunk the day my mom got out of prison/ And I went to pick her up in the rain/ But before I could get to the station in my pick-up truck/ She got runned over by a damned old train”. The song remains a jukebox staple in bars across the Southern US, and lived up to its cocky, spoken-word interlude declaring it the “perfect country and Western song”.

That bristling self-assuredness inflected all of Coe’s music, from his Hank Williams-inspired journeyman epic The Ride in 1983 to Son of the South (1986), in which he reels off a list of his all-time favourite artists – Hank Williams Jr, the Allman Brothers Band, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and “David Allan Coe” himself – and, finally, Willie, Waylon and Me (1987), in which he muscled in on Nelson and Jennings’s famous friendship.

It was a pointed dig at his fellow outlaws whom he considered more a part of the country music establishment; those peers, for their part, often suggested that Coe had a tendency to self-mythologise – and at points he claimed to have more than 300 tattoos, and be a practising Mormon and a polygamist.

Jennings in particular struggled with Coe’s abrasive, confrontational edge, and once said he would “stab you in the back and then ride off your name like he’s your best friend.”Shelby Singleton, the producer who discovered Coe, told Rolling Stone in 1976 that “Ninety per cent of what he tells you is probably bulls***t.”

Coe took issue with those who refused to acknowledge his influence: he was the first mainstream country artist to have an all-female backing band, Ladysmith (a milestone which was later wrongly attributed to Dolly Parton’s early collaborator Porter Wagoner).

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David Allan Coe was born on September 6 1939 to Donald Coe and Dorothy, née Wilson, in Akron, Ohio, an industrial city then known as the Rubber Capital of the World. His childhood was impoverished and unhappy, ruled by his violent, drunken father, who worked at Goodyear Tires, and he was sent to a reform facility aged nine.

Two decades in correctional facilities followed, including three years at the Ohio State Penitentiary in Youngstown, where he faced charges for grand theft auto and possession of burglary tools. He later claimed that, while incarcerated, he killed a fellow inmate with a mop bucket after the inmate made homosexual advances in the communal showers, but this was later debunked; he also met the shock-rock pioneer Screamin’ Jay Hawkins, of I Put A Spell on You fame, who encouraged him to start singing.

Prison left its mark on Coe: his first album, Penitentiary Blues, was released in 1970. Five years later, he reflected on how he had found solace in the system: “There were a lot of times when I would actually be in the county jail after being busted and I’d wake up the next morning and say to myself: ‘Oh I’m glad it’s over; I’m glad I’m going back to prison now, where I know I’ll be safe, where I’ll be out of society.’”

It was a fellow outlaw pioneer who earned Coe his most lucrative hit. In 1977, the aptly namedJohnny Paycheckhad a No 1 with a cover of Coe’s blue-collar anthem Take This Job and Shove It, which inspired the 1981 film of the same name, starring Robert Hays andArt Carney.

Coe’s commercial success began to plateau following his controversial albums Nothing Sacred (1978) and Underground Album (1982) – later reissued together as 18 X-Rated Hits – which were criticised for containing racist slurs and sexist stereotypes. Coe addressed the controversy in 2004, telling the website Swampland: “Anyone that would look at me and say I was a racist would have to be out of their mind.” It was not until his 1983 album Castles in the Sand – which contained The Ride – that Coe was welcomed back into the fold in Nashville.

Decades of obscure albums and purposely uncommercial projects ensued, including a pornographic novel. Late-life Coe was known mostly for his wizened, plaited beard and angry stage presence, as well as collaborations with the metal band Pantera and fellow country controversy-magnet, Kid Rock.

His final two decades were marred by financial struggles. In 2007, there were reports that he owed more than $290,000 in child support to his ex-wife Jody Lynn Coe (he was married six times), with whom he shares four children, including the country music podcaster Tyler Mahan Coe. Coe pleaded guilty to tax evasion in 2015 and was sentenced to three years’ probation and ordered to repay almost $1 million to the authorities.

He is survived by his sixth wife, Kimberley.

David Allan Coe, born September 6 1939, died April 29 2026

byJastin Mags

in

May 10, 2026

David Allan Coe, maverick country star known for his wild life and working-class anthems

David Allan Coe, who has died aged 86, was a maverick country music singer known for his wild tales of prison life and working-class an...

Read More

PepsiCo Just Brought Back a Beloved Limited-Edition Soda for Summer

A fan-favorite soda flavor is returning this summer with a fresh look and a seasonal twist.

Key Takeaways

• The limited-edition drink celebrates a popular reality show and features fruity flavors perfect for warm days.

The soda aisle has expanded in numerous ways over the past few years, especially when it comes to better-for-you varieties. And there is no shortage of options: Poppi,Olipop, Culture Pop,Slice, and evenPepsihave new prebiotic offerings.

Poppi has set the standard for the "healthier" soda industry since its founders' 2018 appearance on "Shark Tank," steadily growing before beingacquired by PepsiCo in 2025 for $1.65 billion. Since its debut, Poppi has released fan-loved soda copycats includingDoc Pop,Alpine Blast, and even aShirley Temple flavor. It's also come out with its own unique brand flavors, such as Strawberry Lemon, Ginger Lime, andBerries & Cream.

Now, the brand is bringing back a fan-favorite flavor in a new can that celebrates the upcoming season of "Love Island USA"—and it couldn’t be more perfect for summer.

Poppi Debuts 'Love Island USA'-Themed Punch Pop

Poppi is joining forces with the über-popular reality series "Love Island USA" to kick off summer in the best way possible: with a limited-edition Punch Pop x "Love Island USA" can.

While each sip of the soda tastes like summer, the most exciting part about the limited-edition drink might be the can. It features the iconic "Love Island" heart and palm trees in vibrant, multicolored shades fit for a summer of love.

Punch Popfirst emerged on the scene last year for a limited time, and is back just in time for warm days and long nights watching the new "Love Island USA" season. And you don't have to be an "Islander" to enjoy the fruit punch flavors with notes of apple, orange, lemon, and cherry juice.

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This isn’t the first time the duo has worked together. Last year, Poppi teamed up with the popular dating show to launchAmaya’s Island Colada, named after fan-favorite cast member and winner of season seven of "Love Island USA," Amaya Espinal. The soda was an instant hit and sold out twice in under 24 hours, prompting Poppi torerelease the popular pop in Januaryfor a limited time.

Poppi shared the news of the new can design onInstagram, and fans are thrilled for its arrival. "Our Punch Pop bombshell is BACK! Same delicious taste with a bit of a different look," the brand wrote on Instagram. "We’re here to make all of your summer dreams come true with this one!"

One fan wrote, "Punch Pop, I missed you!!!"

Another commented, "THE SODA OF SUMMER IS BACK!"

"My prayers were answered," someone else added.

Poppi's Punch Pop flavor is available in single cans and 4-packs. You can buy it at major retailers, including Amazon, Walmart, Target, Kroger, and others, while supplies last. Looking at the Instagram comments, it’s safe to say that fans are rushing to get theirs, so I wouldn’t wait too long to snag some if you want to sip on it while you watch the "Love Island USA" premiere on June 2.

Read the original article onAllrecipes

byJastin Mags

in

May 09, 2026

PepsiCo Just Brought Back a Beloved Limited-Edition Soda for Summer

A fan-favorite soda flavor is returning this summer with a fresh look and a seasonal twist. Key Takeaways The limi...

Read More

Here's What the Judges Are Performing at the Season 24 “American Idol” Finale (Exclusive)

The season 24 finale will feature performances by judges Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie

NEED TO KNOW

• Alicia Keys will serve as the guest mentor and performer alongside a star-studded lineup of musical guests

• The finale will air on Monday, May 11

The season 24 finale ofAmerican Idolis officially stacked with exciting performances.

The episode, which will air on Monday, May 11, will feature performances by judgesCarrie Underwood,Luke BryanandLionel Richie, PEOPLE can exclusively reveal.

Bryan, 49, Richie, 76, and Underwood, 43, will perform "Deep River Woman" by Richie.

Bryan will take the stage solo to perform his new song "Fish Hunt Golf Drink" — and then again with finalist Julián Kalel to perform "A Thousand Miles from Nowhere" by Dwight Yoakam.

Underwood will also take the stage once more for an exciting performance withMötley Crüe.

Idol previously announced its star-studded lineup of finale performers, includingBrad Paisley, Blues Traveler,Cameron Whitcomb,Clay Aiken, En Vogue, Gin Blossoms,Jason Mraz, Lee Ann Womack,Nelly,ShinedownandTori Kelly.

In addition,Alicia Keyswill serve as the guest mentor and performer.

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On May 4, contestants Chris Tungseth and Braden Rumfelt were sent home, leaving Hannah Harper, Jordan McCullough and Keyla Richardson as the Top 3 in the finale.

Elsewhere in the episode, which hosted a Class of 2006 Reunion, Paris Bennett,Kellie Pickler, Elliott Yamin, Bucky Covington and winnerTaylor Hicksreturned to the show to honor the 20th anniversary of their season.

The show also welcomed original judgesRandy JacksonandPaula Abdul. Both served as mentors for the Top 5 — and Abdul joined Underwood, Bryan and Richie as a guest judge.

"I'm just so happy to be at my old home and to see some of my children that are now grown and have kids, and meeting the new hopefuls," Abdul said, according toEntertainment Weekly. "I hope all of you have the best time ever and leave your heart out there."

Ahead of the finale, Underwood wasmoved to tearsby Harper's audition to an original song about postpartum depression. Meanwhile, Richardsonmoved guest judge Jennifer Hudson— in addition to the rest of the judges — when she performed "Circle of Life" on Disney night. On Taylor Swift night, McCullough was praised by Richie — who said he has the ability to turn everything he sings into "a religious experience."

The season 24 finale of the singing competition show will air on Monday, May 11 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.

Read the original article onPeople

byJastin Mags

in

May 09, 2026

Here's What the Judges Are Performing at the Season 24 “American Idol” Finale (Exclusive)

The season 24 finale will feature performances by judges Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie NEED TO KNOW ...

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Eurovision Song Contest 2026: Who is the UK entry and how can you watch?

TheEurovision Song Contestslogan, “United by music”, gets more ironic by the day. The 70th edition of the competition is ploughing ahead in Vienna this May, despite several countries boycotting due toIsrael’s participation, growing pressure on the UK’s entrant to also withdraw, and a high likelihood of vociferous protests on the night.

It should make for an even more bizarre Eurovision than usual, juxtaposing fraught geopolitics with the usual enjoyably bonkers, high-camp pop and retina-searing staging. So, who is actually participating (and sitting this one out), and does the UK have any chance of avoiding the infamous nul points? Here are all your burning 2026 Eurovision questions answered.

• Where is Eurovision 2026?

• When is the final?

• How to watch

• Full line-up and running order

• Who is representing the UK?

• Is Israel still in Eurovision?

• Who is boycotting Eurovision?

• Is Russia still banned?

• Is Scott Mills still taking part?

• The best acts for 2026

• How voting works

Where is Eurovision 2026?

We’re heading to Austria this year followingJJ’s victory in 2025with the glass-shattering techno-operaticWasted Love. This is the country’s third time hosting (the last stint was in 2015), and our base of operations will be the 16,152-seater Wiener Stadthalle in Vienna. On hosting duties are TV presenter Victoria Swarovski (yes,thatSwarovski – watch out for some seriously bling accessories) and actor Michael Ostrowski.

When is the final?

Tune in for pop and protests on Saturday, May 16. For the true superfans – or just gluttons for punishment – that grand final is preceded by two televised semi-finals on Tuesday, May 12 and Thursday, May 14.

How to watch the Eurovision final

The BBC is once again broadcasting all the action on BBC One andiPlayer. You can also follow along on BBC Radio 2 and BBC Sounds, should you wish to have the pure aural experience and miss out on such sights as a grown man running in a hamster wheel.

Of course, we would also recommend following along viaThe Telegraph’s dedicated Eurovision live blog for expert insight and a steady stream of snarky comments.

What is the full Eurovision line-up and running order?

This year, 35 countries are participating in Eurovision, and 25 will make the grand final.

The “Big Five” nations (although there are only four competing in 2026 – about which more shortly) get automatic entry to the final because they provide extra financial support to the contest. Last year’s winner also gets a free pass. So the final will definitely feature:

• Italy: Sal Da Vinci, Per Sempre Sì

• Germany: Sarah Engels, Fire

• France: Monroe, Regarde !

• Austria: COSMÓ, Tanzschein

• United Kingdom: Look Mum No Computer, Eins, Zwei, Drei

The running order for the first semi-final is:

1. Moldova: Satoshi, Viva, Moldova!

2. Sweden: FELICIA, My System

3. Croatia: LELEK, Andromeda

4. Greece: Akylas, Ferto

5. Portugal: Bandidos do Cante, Rosa

6. Georgia: Bzikebi, On Replay

7. Finland: Linda Lampenius x Pete Parkkonen, Liekinheitin

8. Montenegro: Tamara Živković, Nova Zora

9. Estonia: Vanilla Ninja, Too Epic To Be True

10. Israel: Noam Bettan, Michelle

11. Belgium: ESSYLA, Dancing on the Ice

12. Lithuania: Lion Ceccah, Sólo Quiero Más

13. San Marino: SENHIT, Superstar

14. Poland: ALICJA, Pray

15. Serbia: LAVINA, Kraj Mene

The running order for the second semi-final is:

1. Bulgaria: DARA, Bangaranga

2. Azerbaijan: JIVA, Just Go

3. Romania: Alexandra Căpitănescu, Choke Me

4. Luxembourg: Eva Marija, Mother Nature

5. Czechia: Daniel Zizka, CROSSROADS

6. Armenia: SIMÓN, Paloma Rumba

7. Switzerland: Veronica Fusaro, Alice

8. Cyprus: Antigoni, JALLA

9. Latvia: Atvara, Ēnā

10. Denmark: Søren Torpegaard Lund, Før Vi Går Hjem

11. Australia: Delta Goodrem, Eclipse

12. Ukraine: LELÉKA, Ridnym

13. Albania: Alis, Nân

14. Malta: AIDAN, Bella

15. Norway: JONAS LOVV, YA YA YA

Who is representing the UK?

The marvellously monikeredLook Mum No Computer. We’ve gone all down with the kids: our entry is a popular YouTuber (real name: Sam Battle), who is tackling workplace ennui through the medium of bouncy synth-pop and Germanic counting.

He has amassed more than 1.4 million social media followers by unveiling whimsical musical inventions that would tickle Wes Anderson – like a synthesiser made of Furby toys – and even has his own dedicated vintage museum in Ramsgate. He’s also a prolific singer-songwriter, and has legitimate musical experience to balance the effortful quirk: he used to be in the band Zibra, which played Glastonbury in 2015, and now tours as a solo artist.

Can the UK win?

Well, most of Europe’s voters seem to hate us, so probably not. Last year ouraptly namedsongWhat the Hell Just Happened?saw us finish in an ignominious 19th place. But might this be our year? Look Mum No Computer’sEins, Zwei, Dreiis catchy, naff, ridiculous and esoteric – in short, perfect Eurovision fuel.

It vaguely nods towards international sensibilities, but is also like a silly version of the London 2012 Olympics Opening Ceremony: the music video features baked beans, digestive biscuits, and a flying Mini Cooper wheezing over the White Cliffs of Dover. It brings a (confused) patriotic tear to the eye.

The choice of Battle also perhaps acknowledges Eurovision’s growing Gen Z fanbase. The choice of a geeky, clip-friendly YouTuber might see the UK get its best result in years. Or we could get shafted yet again. That essential tension is at the heart of the Eurovision experience.

Is Israel still in Eurovision?

Yes, in short. Yes, but… is the longer answer. The 2025 contest saw widespread protests due to the war in Gaza: pro-Palestinian protestors attempted to storm the stage when Israel’s Yuval Raphael was performing, some audience members booed and waved Palestinian flags, and in the streets of Basel, protestors threw smoke bombs and burned Israeli and American flags. Despite all of that, Raphael performed strongly and finished in second place.

This year, 28-year-old Noam Bettan is entering the fray as Israel’s contestant. His songMichelle, which is sung in a mix of English, French and Hebrew, is about a toxic relationship with “the queen of problems”, and also, as far as I can tell from the music video, about Bettan buying every terrible leather jacket that Shein has to offer.

Wait, didn’t Israel rig the vote last year?

There were raised eyebrows when Israel steamed into second place thanks to the televote – and actually looked like they might win the whole thing for a moment. Several nations, including Ireland, Spain and Belgium, then demanded that Eurovision organisers investigate the voting system.

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It was subsequently established that the Israeli government had run advertising campaigns to encourage public votes, and that ads in 2025 received more than 68 million impressions. In response, the contest has introduced new rules: entrants and broadcasters are banned from taking part in third-party promotional campaigns (including those run by governments), and fans are now only able to cast 10 votes each instead of 20.

Martin Green, director of Eurovision, said: “One of the clearest messages we received was the need to strengthen trust in the fairness of the contest.” He added that “governments do not participate in the Eurovision Song Contest, artists do.” To quote Ian Fletcher: “So that’s all good then.”

Who is boycotting Eurovision?

Ah, yes. Despite Green’s chipper hand-waving, it seems a few nations are still livid about Israel being in the contest at all – let alone their determined get-out-the-vote efforts. In September last year, Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, Iceland and Slovenia threatened to boycott Eurovision unless Israel was excluded. In response, Austria and Germany said they would quit if Israel was chucked out, leaving organisers – who, lest we forget, wish us to be “united by music” – with a miserable dilemma.

They tackled that head on by announcing they would have an emergency vote on Israel’s participation in November… and then cancelling said vote following the ceasefire in Gaza. Alas, that did not appease the anti-Israel brigade, and those countries (Spain – which is normally one of the “Big Five” – Ireland, the Netherlands, Iceland and Slovenia) are now officially boycotting Eurovision. It’s the largest number of boycotting countries in the history of the contest.

What about the UK?

The UK is still taking part – despite some furious opposition. In April more than 12,000 people signed a Palestine Solidarity Campaign petitionurging Sam Battle to boycott.

Meanwhile the campaign group No Music for Genocide has released an open letter urging public broadcasters, performers, fans and more to boycott. The letter asks why Russia remains banned from the contest – after organisers said its presence would “bring the competition into disrepute” – but “the same standard” has not been applied to Israel. It’s signed by the likes of Brian Eno,Kneecap, Paul Weller, Paloma Faith, Massive Attack, Sigur Rós, and Primal Scream.

Who else is protesting?

Nemo, who won the contest for Switzerland in 2024, has handed back their trophy in protest at Israel taking part. The non-binary singer released a statement on Instagram, writing: “This is not about individuals or artists. It’s about the fact that the contest was repeatedly used to soften ⁠the image of a state accused of severe wrongdoing, all while the EBU insists that this contest is non-political.”

Dana International, who won Eurovision for Israel in Birmingham in 1998, has, in turn, denounced the boycotting nations, calling it a “violent and insulting” decision that added “only hatred and harm”. Once again, a reminder: united by music!

So Russia is still banned?

Yes, Russia is still banned. At the time of writing, no one is protesting that decision.

Will there be extra security at Eurovision 2026?

Oh yes. Vienna police are coordinating with contest officials to ensure the safety of the area around the Wiener Stadthalle, and conducting weekly threat assessments. Around 250 staff members from Vienna police and the interior ministry are working on security planning, and specialised teams, including explosive detection dog units, will likely be deployed in the run-up to the contest. There will also be background checks run on suppliers and staff, checks done on spectators, and airport-style security measures at the fan zones across the city.

Is Scott Mills still taking part?

Awkward. Mills was due to commentate on the Eurovision semi-finals and on the final on Radio 2 (as he has done since 2011), but wassacked by the BBClast month due to allegations of “serious sexual offences” against a teenage boy between 1997 and 2000. So no, he definitely won’t be part of the Eurovision team. The Sun has reported that Mills will be succeeded in his Eurovision role by Sara Cox, joining fellow commentator Rylan Clark.

Which acts should we look out for in 2026?

Putting all the many controversies to one side – let’s focus on the music. And the cheerful inanity of Eurovision. The current bookies’ favourite is Finland withLiekinheitin(or “Flamethrower”), which features angsty singing, literal flames, and a sexy blonde lady in a tinfoil dress dramatically playing the violin. It’s got everything.

Also keep an eye on France withRegarde !(yes, there really is a space before the exclamation mark, and yes, it’s driving me crazy), sung by 17-year-old Monroe, and Denmark’s thumping dance anthemFør Vi Går Hjem.

The UK isn’t the only entrant bemoaning office culture: Armenia is having a right old go as well (sample lyrics: “This meeting could have been an email / Free coffee won’t keep me here man”). Meanwhile Greece’s entry is a panic attack in human form, 50 per cent of Norway’s lyrics are “ya ya ya”, and Romania has courted controversy by selecting the songChoke Me, which campaigners say glamorises strangulation. Also Serbia has emotive death metal, and Australia is bringing out the big(ish) guns with actual chart-topper Delta Goodrem.

Wait, is Australia in Europe?

Not even a little bit, but here we are. Australians are superfans who enthused their way in. It was meant to be a one-off, in 2015, as part of the contest’s 50th-anniversary celebrations, but they were so popular (finishing an impressive fifth) that they were invited back. Eurovision also features Azerbaijan, so we’re really playing fast and loose with the “Euro” part of the equation here.

Do performers sing live?

Yes, it’s mandated in the rules that all lead vocals must be sung live – and in some cases, you can tell. (There is no corresponding rule that you must sing in tune.) Songs must only be original compositions and a maximum of three minutes long.

Remind me how the voting works?

Easily the most byzantine system of all these entertainment contests. In the final, contestants get two separate scores: one from a jury of music experts, the other from fan votes (cast via phone, text message or the official Eurovision app). Fans cannot vote for their own country.

The results are wheeled out in two stages in the grand final. First, the acts are ranked by jury vote, and then that order is slowly – agonisingly slowly – upended as each country’s spokesperson announces who they’re giving fan votes to, in the form of points, from one to 12. This is usually the time when the UK slides inexorably down the rankings, and we all lose faith in Europe, democracy and music.

Don’t countries just vote for their neighbours?

There is still neighbourly bloc voting, with the likes of Greece and Cyprus doggedly sticking together, year after year. Which is heart-warming. We need some certainties in life – and in Eurovision.

byJastin Mags

in

May 09, 2026

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