Eurovision semi-final 2: When is it, what time does it start, presenters, musicians & can the UK vote in it?

The Eurovision Song contest’s second semi-final gets underway tonight (Thursday, May 11) and 31 different countries are competing for a spot in the popular song contest’s grand final. Five countries have already been eliminated and fans now eagerly await the fate of 16 more.

In 2023, Liverpool was chosen as the Eurovision host city. Having won the competition last year, Ukraine was originally down to host the song contest but passed the privilege to the UK due to the Russian invasion.

The first semi-final saw ten countries qualify for the grand event including fan favourite’s such as Sweden, Finland, and Croatia. The host city began proceedings with an introductory film, starring the late Paul O’Grady alongside notable people with a connection to Liverpool.

There will be no introductory film at the second semi-final but fans will get to see a special performance titled Music Unites Generations, in which former Ukrainian Eurovision entrant Mariya Yaremchuk leads a medley of different Ukrainian music. UK entrant Mae Muller will also preview her weekend performance.

Here’s everything you need to know about the second Eurovision semi-final including when it’s on; whether it’s televised; who the presenters are; the line-up of musicians and running order; and whether the UK public can vote in it?

When is Eurovision semi-final 2?

Eurovision semi-final 2 will see 16 different countries battle it out from 8pm on Thursday May 11.