Across its 70-year history, the Eurovision Song Contest has always been one for surprises.
But nobody, not even die hard fans, could have expected the inclusion of Will Ferrell during a segment on the BBC show.
To mark the 70th anniversary, the competition pulled out all the stops to celebrate the landmark milestone.
After opening with an emotional tribute about the seven-decade history of Eurovision that left fans in floods of tears, the show then portrayed some messages from other contestants and fans.
As each person reflected on what Eurovision meant to them, suddenly the Step Brothers star, 58, made a surprise cameo during the video messages.
In a short clip, he said: ‘One word for Eurovision? Let me think… what could it be? I know, joy!’
Reacting to the moment on social media, @superTV247 wrote on X: ‘Yes that is Will Ferrell and yes this is still #Eurovision.’
Wiesel also wrote: ‘This is just plain crazy, that Will Ferrell was here to switch on.’
David, meanwhile, said: ‘How great to see Will Ferrell at this #EuroSemi1 in Vienna, even if it’s through a video, evoking his character in that hilarious #Eurovision tribute movie.
‘I’ve probably watched it like 8 times and it still feels like not enough.’
Echoing the other reactions, Ava also added: ‘Will Ferrell cameo is INSANE #Eurovision.’
Despite fans’ shock over his involvement, the Hollywood actor does actually have an amusing history with Eurovision after starring in and co-writing the musical comedy film Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga.
The Netflix movie follows Icelandic singers Lars (Ferrell) and Sigrit (Rachel McAdams) as they represent their country in the contest.
Having attended in 2018 and 2019, Ferrell is a huge fan of the show.
Recently, it was also confirmed that his comedy film would be turning into a musical on Broadway.
Discussing the project, he told Radio Times: ‘We are more than excited to bring Eurovision to Broadway. The stage musical is a perfect place to continue our celebration of all the things we love about this amazing and unifying song competition.’
The Eurovision Song Contest 2026 final is available to watch on BBC on Saturday 16 May 2026.
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