The Eurovision Song Contest is increasingly becoming a platform where familiar faces from popular culture make unexpected appearances, even for those who aren’t avid followers of the competition.
San Marino, in particular, has a penchant for inviting guest stars. This year, audiences might have caught a fleeting glimpse of Boy George, and in 2021, American rapper Flo Rida lent his star power to help the microstate reach the final.
However, fans of reality television might experience a moment of recognition during the second semi-final with a performer representing Cyprus.
Getty ImagesAntigoni Buxton, who gained prominence on the eighth series of the popular reality show *Love Island* in 2022, is set to represent Cyprus with her infectious dance-pop track “Jalla”.
However, Buxton asserts that her participation should come as no surprise. “If anything, doing *Love Island* was the detour,” she states.
“My lifelong ambition has been to be a singer, a dream I’ve held since my earliest memories. And my fascination with Eurovision began the moment I saw Helena Paparizou win for Greece in 2005.”
“*Love Island* was a pivotal moment, offering me a significant platform to introduce myself to a broad audience. Now, I’m on the career path I always envisioned.”
Getty ImagesBorn in London but with strong Greek-Cypriot heritage, Buxton expresses immense pride in representing Cyprus.
“Although I was born and raised in London, I spent my summers there for six to eight weeks annually and grew up with a profound sense of Cypriot identity,” she explains.
Her entry, “Jalla,” thoughtfully incorporates traditional Greek instruments and pays homage to the revered belly dance, Tsifteteli.
The title itself, “Jalla,” is a piece of Greek-Cypriot colloquialism, roughly translating to “more” or “again,” and holds particular significance for Buxton.
“It’s a unique word exclusively used in Cyprus,” Buxton elaborates. “I am deeply honored to share this linguistic and cultural nuance, as embracing my roots is a consistent theme throughout my musical work.”
Cultural Touchstones and Cameos
Buxton’s family, including her mother and grandparents, feature in the music video for “Jalla,” but she also secured a notable cameo from a beloved British act.
Fans of *Britain’s Got Talent* will instantly recognize Stavros Flatley, the father-son dance duo who achieved national acclaim after their appearance on the ITV show in 2009.
“In the UK, they represent a significant Cypriot cultural moment,” Buxton notes. “I reached out to Demi, Stavros Flatley’s real name, and asked if he would be part of the video. His response was incredibly gracious and heartfelt.”
As a former reality television personality, Buxton anticipates re-engaging with the public spotlight following her *Love Island* stint.
“The beauty of Eurovision, in contrast to some past public experiences where judgment and negative commentary were prevalent, is its overwhelmingly positive and supportive environment,” she reflects. “While criticism still exists, the community is renowned for its warmth, happiness, and encouragement.”
“Everyone recognizes it as a profound opportunity to immerse themselves in diverse cultures and to simply enjoy the experience. I feel an immense sense of joy and gratitude.”
ITV / ShutterstockThis year marks Cyprus’s 42nd participation in Eurovision, a testament to its consistent presence in the competition, yet without a victory to date.
Although they did not advance to the final in 2025, their current entry aims to make a significant impact.
Buxton’s live rendition in Vienna brings the lyrical imagery of dancing on tables to life, featuring a dramatically oversized table from which her dancers emerge. As “Jalla” builds to its crescendo, the performance culminates in an impressive display of pyrotechnics, likely utilizing Cyprus’s entire supply.
Despite the spectacle, the 30-year-old singer emphasizes that her motivation extends beyond merely winning.
“In terms of my career and achieving success, my focus is on delivering my absolute best,” she states. “If I can leave the stage knowing I’ve made myself proud, that Cyprus is proud, and that my family and team are proud, and that we’ve executed an exceptional performance, that is a victory in itself.”
“However, I also recognize the opportunity to make history for my country, which would undoubtedly mean a great deal to the people of Cyprus.”
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Details can be found on the website : www.bbc.com