Few Eurovision acts have etched their name in the annals of the event’s history as indelibly as the Israeli artist, Netta. Since her remarkable victory in 2018 with the MeToo-inspired anthem ‘Toy,’ she has won the affection of countless fans worldwide. Her vibrant persona and unique artistry now return to the Grand Final in Liverpool, where she will be performing during the interval.
The Power of Queer Allyship
At the age of 30, Netta is already a familiar face at Pride events and was recently part of an LGBTQ+ protest in Israel. She has cultivated a strong following among the LGBTQ+ community, a group she regards as “so important”. As she navigates her own sexuality, she has said, “I don’t think I take any letter of the LGBTQ+ alphabet, I said that once in a show and then somebody screamed, ‘girl, you are all the letters!’” Netta’s ability to embrace her unique identity has resonated deeply with her fans, making her an influential ally to the community.
An Unconventional Journey to Stardom
In 2022, Netta described herself as a “straight girl with a very gay story,” attributing this in part to her experiences of bullying as a young girl. Her journey to Eurovision fame was equally unconventional. A chance audition for a talent show in Israel propelled her into the Eurovision spotlight, a trajectory she describes as “very, very peculiar.” It was there that a music industry insider recognized her potential and predicted her Eurovision triumph.
A Fan of the Unconventional
Netta’s eclectic tastes extend beyond her music, with the artist expressing admiration for this year’s Eurovision host, Hannah Waddingham, and competitor Noa Kirel. The 22-year-old Kirel, described by Netta as a “great, great performer,” is representing Israel in this year’s competition with ‘Unicorn,’ penned by Doron Medalie—the same man who wrote Netta’s winning hit ‘Toy.’
Five years post her Eurovision victory, Netta continues to push boundaries, with plans for a UK tour later this year. The singer’s ongoing evolution, both in her music and her advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community, has fans eagerly awaiting what’s to come. As her star continues to rise, so too does her influence, providing a beacon of hope and acceptance for many in the LGBTQ+ community.