Ireland sparkles, but fails to reach the Eurovision final

Ireland and Norwegian-born singer Emmy have failed to qualify for the finals of the Eurovision Song Contest 2025.

The song was written in part by Larissa Tormey, a Kilbeggan-based songwriter. It tells the story of Laika, the Soviet-era dog who was sent into space in 1957, if she was still alive.

Emmy had hoped to recreate the success of Bambie Thug in last year's event, who became the first Irish entrant to make it into the finals since Ryan O’Shaughnessy in 2018.

Ireland had tough competition in the semi-finals.

All performances included bright stage lights, interesting background graphics and sparkling costumes, with Ireland’s entrants all wearing silver and aiming to give an overall cosmic feel.

Wearing silver makeup and costumes, the performance opened with her musical partner and brother, Erlend Guttulsrud Kristiansen, playing the keyboards.

Speaking ot Midland 103 this morning, Larissa said: “For this, you have to be ready, and we were. Although it's such a surreal experience seeing this on stage.

“To be exposed to millions of people around the world is just amazing, especially for Emmy.

“She handled the stage very well, and for such a young woman, she is very experienced. At the end, I was only really upset for her, but she is so young and so very talented.”

Emmy took to Instagram to address her fans, saying: “I’m so sorry, Ireland, we will forever love you and be grateful and honoured to have represented you.”