Eurovision's Comeback Kings and Queens: Triumphs and Tragedies

Eurovision Comebacks: A Look at Artists Who Tried and Failed The Eurovision Song Contest is known for its dramatic performances and captivating stories. But what happens when a past winner or successful participant tries to recapture that magic? This year, several artists attempted comebacks, with varying degrees of success. Mans Zelmerlow, the 2015 winner from Sweden, attempted a return in 2025 but ultimately came second to Kaj. "It was a challenging experience," Zelmerlow stated in a recent interview. "The pressure was immense, and while I'm proud of my performance, it wasn't the outcome I hoped for." Similarly, Ulrikke, who was supposed to represent Norway in 2020, attempted again in 2023, but came second to Alessandra. In contrast, Loreen, the 2012 winner, demonstrated the possibility of a successful return, winning again in 2023. The Roop, representing Lithuania in 2020 and 2021, attempted another run in 2024 but failed to qualify. These examples highlight the difficulty of a comeback in the highly competitive world of Eurovision.