For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails
Sign up to our free breaking news emails
Eurovision favourites Russia have made it through to the grand final in Stockholm, Sweden along with nine other countries.
The UK’s duo Joe and Jake, who have an automatic pass as part of the ‘big five’ thanks to our economic contribution, will be competing against the acts from the Netherlands, Hungary, Austria, Croatia, Malta, the Czech Republic, Cyprus and Armenia.
The first semi-final was held on Tuesday night, with Iceland, Bosnia & Herzegovina and San Marino failing to impress public voters and the professional jury. They will not be singing on Saturday 14 May.
San Marino’s eccentric entry Serhat set Twitter alight after viewers began pointing out that the disco lounge singer bore a striking resemblance to Respect politician George Galloway. The Bosnia & Herzegovina performers, meanwhile, appeared to be wrapped in the silver blankets handed out to marathon runners at the end of the race.
Cyprus’ rock band arguably stole the show with their crazy while Iveta Mukuchyan left little to the imagination as she sung “LoveWave” for Armenia in a barely-there glittery leotard.
Ten more final places are up for grabs in the second semi-final, airing at 8pm on BBC Four this Thursday, while France, Germany, Italy, Spain and this year’s host nation Sweden also go straight through.
Meet the Eurovision 2016 contestants
Show all 43
Justin Timberlake has been confirmed to perform during the grand final interval, with Graham Norton returning to his UK commentary duties after taking over from the late Sir Terry Wogan in 2008.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies