Céline Dion Leaves An Emotional Video At The Eurovision
Céline Dion returned to her Eurovision roots in a touching surprise on Tuesday night (May 13). The legendary singer delivered a heartfelt video message during the first semi-final of the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest. Notably, it took place in Basel, Switzerland, where she was represented in 1988.
Céline Dion expressed her gratitude and deep emotional connection to the event that helped launch her to global fame nearly four decades ago. Her message went out on a big screen to the hosts and contestants, showing them love as well. “Dear Eurovision family and contestants,” she began warmly. “I’d love nothing more than to be with you in Basel right now. Switzerland will forever hold a special place in my heart. It’s a country that believed in me and gave me the chance to be part of something so extraordinary.”
The message was especially poignant given the setting. Switzerland, the very nation Dion represented — and won for — back in 1988. She delivered the now-iconic ballad Ne partez pas sans moi. “Winning the Eurovision Song Contest for Switzerland in 1988 was a life-changing moment for me, and I’m so thankful for everyone who supported me,” she continued. “Now, 37 years later, it’s so beautiful and emotional to see Switzerland winning and hosting this incredible event once again. To the people of Switzerland, thank you for your love. This night is yours, and I hope you feel as proud as I do.”
Dion’s message also included a heartfelt segment in French. “La musique nous unit, pas seulement ce soir, pas seulement en ce moment. C’est notre force, notre soutien, et notre réconfort dans les moments où on en a besoin. Je vous aime tous, l’Europe — et le reste du monde, bien sûr. Bisous, je vous aime.” (“Music unites us, not only this evening, not only in this moment. It is our strength, our support, and our comfort in times when we need it. I love you all, Europe — and the rest of the world, of course. Kisses, I love you.”)
Céline Dion and Balancing Career with Challenging Diagnosis
The emotional appearance comes during a significant period of resurgence for the Canadian superstar. Thus, she has been gradually returning to public life following her diagnosis with the rare neurological disorder Stiff-Person Syndrome. The illness forced her to cancel all tour dates and step back from the spotlight for nearly two years. So she left fans concerned, but hopeful. Last summer, Dion made headlines with her triumphant return at the Summer Olympics opening ceremony. She is signaling her resilience and unwavering spirit.
Tuesday’s broadcast also featured a tribute to Dion’s Eurovision legacy. After her video aired, several artists from the previous year’s contest took the stage to perform a moving cover of her 1988 winning track. Thus, it is fitting to pay homage to the woman who turned a modest singing competition into a career-launching platform.
Further Events of Eurovision
Eurovision 2025’s first semi-final saw several hopefuls advance to the Grand Final, including Norway’s Kyle Alessandro, Sweden’s KAJ, Albania’s Shkodra Elektronike, and Ukraine’s Ziferblat. Meanwhile, entries from Azerbaijan, Belgium, Cyprus, Croatia, and Slovenia were eliminated. The second semi-final, scheduled for Thursday (May 15), will feature acts from across Europe and beyond, with ten more spots up for grabs.
As the competition heats up, Dion’s surprise message served as a reminder of Eurovision’s enduring impact and the powerful, unifying force of music. For Céline Dion and many watching around the world, it was a full-circle moment that underscored the heart and soul of Eurovision: connection, celebration, and the possibility of dreams taking flight.
