Reports are emerging from Greek media that the presentation of “What They Say”, the Greek entry for Eurovision 2023, may be postponed. The song, which was supposed to be presented on March 6, has reportedly been delayed due to the Tempi train crash, the deadliest rail disaster in Greece since 1968, and the ongoing court case between Melissa Mantzoukis and ERT. Here’s everything we know so far about the possible postponement of the Greek entry for Eurovision 2023.
The Tempi Train Crash
On February 28, 2023, two trains collided head-on in the south of the Tempi Valley in central Greece. The crash resulted in the deaths of at least 57 people, and 85 more were injured, making it the deadliest rail disaster in Greece since 1968 and the deadliest in Europe since 2013. The tragedy has caused widespread mourning in Greece, and as a result, many television stations have had to change their programming. Among them is ERT, which is responsible for the selection and presentation of Greece’s entry for the Eurovision Song Contest.
Melissa Mantzoukis Court Case
Another reason for the possible postponement of the song presentation is the ongoing court case between Melissa Mantzoukis and ERT. Melissa filed a case after the Greek selection results were revealed, and if the court rules in her favor, then ERT will temporarily have to stop all activities related to Eurovision 2023. The court is set to reveal their judgement tomorrow.
Who is Victor Vernicos?
Victor Vernicos was proposed by PANIK records to represent Greece in Eurovision 2023. He is 16 years old and is half-Greek and half-Danish. He has been performing since he was four years old and released his first single at the age of 14. He is the youngest person in history to represent Greece at the Eurovision Song Contest.
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Greece’s History in the Eurovision Song Contest
Greece debuted in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1974, represented by Marinella and the song “Krasi, thalassa kai t’agori mou,” which finished in 11th place with 7 points. Three years later, Greece earned their first top 5 finish with Paschalis, Marianna, Robert, and Bessy, who finished in 5th place with “Mathima solfege.” In 2001, Greece achieved their first top 3 result with Antique and the song “I Would Die For You.” The song became a European hit and charted across the continent. In 2005, Helena Paparizou returned to the Eurovision stage as a solo artist and brought Greece their first, and to date only, victory. Her song “My Number One” won with 230 points, beating runners-up Malta by 38 points.
Possible New Date for the Song Presentation
ERT has not given a new date for the song presentation, and it is unclear when it will take place. However, it is expected that a new date will be announced soon, pending the outcome of the court case and the end of the national mourning period.
Conclusion
The possible postponement of Greece’s entry for Eurovision 2023, “What They Say,” is due to two significant events: the Tempi train crash and the ongoing court case between Melissa Mantzoukis and ERT. However, the exact reason for the delay is yet to be confirmed. We will continue to update this article as more information becomes available, including any news of a new date for the presentation of the Greek entry for Eurovision