Eurovision viewers have been left divided over the BBC’s new presenting line-up after Angela Scanlon made her debut alongside Rylan Clark following Scott Mills’ departure from the competition coverage.
The first Eurovision semi-final aired on Tuesday night from Vienna, with Ms Scanlon joining Rylan in the commentary box for the first time.
The presenter was confirmed earlier this year as part of the BBC’s refreshed Eurovision team after former host Scott Mills was axed from his duties at the broadcaster.
While some viewers praised the chemistry between Ms Scanlon and Rylan, others were far less impressed, with criticism flooding X during the live broadcast.
Angela Scanlon joined Rylan in the commentary box for the first time
|BBC
One fan wrote: “They should’ve been the next hosts of Strictly - they have amazing hosting chemistry together!”
Another praised Ms Scanlon’s debut, commenting: “She’s doing a decent job too. Far better than the inane Scott Mills.”
Others were equally enthusiastic about the pairing, with one viewer simply declaring: “I love these two.”
However, not all Eurovision fans were convinced by the new line-up.
Scott Mills was axed from the BBC over allegations against his personal conduct
| BBC“Commentary is rubbish!!! Stick to one not two,” one disgruntled viewer posted online.
Another complained: “They cannot shut up. The show is not about them.”
A third wrote: “Angela Scanlon is just as I expected, trying too hard. Uncomfortable listening.”
"She shouldn’t be anywhere near BBC One," penned another viewer.
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Rylan Clark is hosting Eurovision for the BBC
|GETTY
Another viewer referenced the controversy surrounding this year’s contest, posting: “Embarrassing for Angela to involve herself this year of all years.”
This year’s Eurovision Song Contest has already been overshadowed by political tensions after several countries chose to boycott the competition over Israel’s participation.
Ireland, Spain, Slovenia, Iceland and the Netherlands all confirmed they would not take part in the 2026 contest following the European Broadcasting Union’s decision to allow Israel to remain in the competition.
Despite the controversy, the BBC has continued its coverage, with Rylan, Ms Scanlon and Graham Norton fronting the broadcaster’s television presentation across Eurovision week.
Ahead of her debut, Ms Scanlon described joining the contest as “equal parts thrilling and terrifying”.
“It feels like joining the greatest party on earth,” she said.
“I grew up watching the Eurovision Song Contest with my three sisters, making very serious and wildly biased scorecards from the couch, so to now be part of it is genuinely surreal.”
Angela Scanlon
|GETTY
Rylan also shared his excitement before the semi-final aired, calling Eurovision “the biggest show on the planet”.
The BBC’s Eurovision coverage will continue on Thursday with the second semi-final before Saturday’s grand final, where Mr Norton will once again return to provide commentary for UK viewers.