Eurovision Cuts Verka Serduchka’s Performance from Anniversary Video

Verka Serduchka’s Eurovision Performance

According to Главком: Eurovision’s official YouTube channel released a video featuring past contestants to celebrate the contest’s 70th anniversary. However, the full performance of Ukrainian artist Verka Serduchka was omitted from the recording. The Eurovision 2026 final took place in Vienna, Austria, on the night of May 16–17, with Bulgaria taking the win. Ukraine also secured a spot in the top ten finalists.

During the celebration, former contestants appeared on stage. Among the invited guests were Ukrainian singers Ruslana and Verka Serduchka. Andriy Danylko, performing as Serduchka, presented the song “Volare,” originally sung at Eurovision in 1958 by Domenico Modugno. But Serduchka’s rendition of “Volare” was cut from the video. A separate clip of the interval act was posted on Eurovision’s YouTube channel, though organizers have offered no explanation.

Fan Reactions

Notably, Ruslana, who won Eurovision in 2004, and Verka Serduchka, who placed second in 2007, have become iconic figures in the contest’s history. YouTube users expressed outrage over Serduchka’s absence from the final video. Several comments highlighted her popularity:

• ‘Verka is the mother of Eurovision! Verka’s mom is the grandmother of Eurovision.’
• ‘Ruslana and Verka Serduchka are huge stars!’

Users also noted, ‘They cut Volare with Verka at the end, when the whole hall was singing. Unfair.’ Others remarked on Ruslana’s timeless appearance: ‘Oh my god, Ruslana is 52 and still looks like a warrior queen! She works so hard on her body! I adore her!’

The omission of Verka Serduchka’s performance from the anniversary video sparked backlash among fans, underscoring her significance in the contest’s legacy. Alongside Ruslana, Serduchka remains a key figure in Eurovision, and their contributions to promoting Ukrainian music cannot be overstated. The audience’s response highlights the need for full coverage of such iconic moments in international events like Eurovision.

While Verka Serduchka's absence from the anniversary video has ignited discussions about her impact, Ukraine continues to make waves in Eurovision. Recently, Ukraine's Leléka achieved a remarkable milestone by breaking records and securing a top-10 finish, further solidifying the country's strong presence in the contest's history.