Gay Vrienden Club

Throughout its history, Eurovision has been synonymous with queer representation and has seen real moments of hope and progress.

From transgender performer Dana International winning the contest in 1998, to Conchita Wurst's famous victory in 2014 and queer representation among the 2019, 2021 and 2023 winners, the Contest has always been about visibility.

With eight artists out at the time in 2021, three in 2022 and 2023, what has 2024 served us in terms of LGBTIQ+ representation?

Let's take a look at the artists who have been public in their queer identity.

Electric Fields (Zaachariaha Fielding and Michael Ross) - Australia

Both members of Electric Fields identify as part of the queer community.

Zaachariaha uses both he/him and she/her pronouns. In an interview with The Guardian, he described his experience.

“With my family, I didn’t even come out … There was no reason for it. My brother reminded me of it a few years ago – he said, ‘You know, you didn’t really come out to us.’ I didn’t really verbalise it, I was just more being it.”

While Michael shared his experience growing up queer, saying:

“I pretty much had to hide my soul up until I left school,” he says. “I had to try to walk differently, I had to move my hands differently. And it’s a very unique experience that only queer people would really understand – pretending that you’re the opposite of what you are."

When I finally did come out and accept myself, I had to battle family for 18 years, and only really felt full acceptance in my 30s. Having endured that, there is a very deep strength that you acquire, and I use that almost every day – usually to stand up for other people who are being othered.”

Mustii - Belgium

Belgian artist Mustii is openly queer and has been a judge on Drag Race Belgique in its first two seasons.

When asked about coming out in an interview about Drag Race he said:

"I tried not to make an event of it. I am lucky to have been born into a very open, rather intellectual family. I announced it in a very simple way, as if I was going to buy bread."

Saba - Denmark

Saba is openly gay and has spoken about her relationships with women. She is currently in a relationship with Aviaja Larsen. After winning selection at the Danish national final show, Saba kissed Aviaja in celebration.

Bambie Thug - Ireland

The Irish performer Bambie Thug identifies as non-binary and as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. They told the Gay Times

"I like being part of a cool queer rising scene. I also didn't have that growing up so it's important to have people you can relate to and have music that speaks to you and allows you more freedom to be yourself – more queer voices is what the world fucking needs."

Silvester Belt - Lithuania

Silvester Belt came out as bisexual in 2017. He shared the importance of being visible in his native Lithuania.

"Now I want to talk about it, there is no more fear. I want those who are afraid to see that there is nothing to be afraid of! There are very few people who talk about their orientation openly, like me."

Silvester is a fan of Troye Sivan and covered his song 'Rush' in the lead-up to Eurovision.

Kenzy Loevett - San Marino

Kenzy was in a long-term relationship and eventually married Spanish actress Aria Bedmar. Unfortunately, the couple announced their split in 2021.

Nemo - Switzerland

Nemo identified as non-binary. They told us at Aussievision how they hope to inspire others.

"I hope that my performance can spark inspiration and also courage to be yourself like for anyone that watches just to realise that being the way they are, is perfect."

"They don't have to change or compromise for anyone or give into any expectations from anyone or society in general. I think that would make me really happy if anyone takes that away from from my performance."

Olly Alexander - United Kingdom

Olly identifies as gay, queer and non-binary (he does use he/him pronouns). Olly was the lead singer for Years & Years. Mny will know him through his acting roles such as 'It's a Sin' which depicted queer life in the UK during the AIDS crisis.

On being selected for Eurovision he said:

"As a young boy, I always looked forward to this incredible event of unbridled joy, the wonderfully chaotic mix of musical styles, theatrical performances, heartfelt emotion, and humour. I really can’t believe I’m going to be a part of such a special legacy and fly the flag for the UK in the gayest way possible, it shall be an honour!"

bron: www.aussievision.net