Eurovision 2026: Delta Goodrem sends Australia to the grand final with note-perfect performance

Standing before a glistening crescent moon and adorned in more than 7,000 Swarovski crystals, Australia’s 2026 Eurovision hopeful Delta Goodrem delivered a powerful performance on the 70th anniversary of the global song contest – and become the first Australian act to qualify for the grand final since 2023. Heading into the competition as an early favourite behind Eurovision heavy-hitters Denmark and Finland, Goodrem delivered a note-perfect rendition of her power-ballad entry, Eclipse. The track is impressive if a little formulaic – and of the 35 countries competing, 15 are represented by solo female performers, so Goodrem needed to find a way to stand out in a crowded field. Despite playing it safe, Goodrem’s performance was precise and undeniable. After making a dramatic trek downstage and towards her piano – bedazzled in sparkling gold, of course – Goodrem performed a short piano solo (although the camera was unexpectedly obstructed in this moment, making it difficult to see Goodrem actually play the instrument). The performance climaxed with a key change, and the 41-year-old singer was propelled into the air on a platform that rose from within the piano itself. There was wind, there was fire, there was Goodrem’s remarkable upper range – it was a refreshingly self-assured offering from Australia after a disappointing couple of years for the country in the competition. …