Vicky Leandros spoke on ANT1’s morning show about Eurovision and Akyla, who is representing Greece this year in Vienna. She also confirmed reports that she will open the First Semi-Final of Eurovision 2026.
The great Greek performer, who represented Luxembourg twice in the contest—famously winning with the iconic Après Toi—first took part in Eurovision in 1967, held in Vienna, with L’amour est bleu. The song quickly became a global success, essentially launching a major international career for the then 15-year-old Vicky Leandros.
“When I was fifteen, I sang for Eurovision for the first time, for Luxembourg, in French—a song called ‘L’amour est bleu’ (‘Love is Blue’). And of course, it was in Vienna. So they’re creating a kind of historical opening, and I’ll sing that song, which was incredibly fortunate to become a worldwide hit afterward. Memories always come back, but I must tell you, at that age I was a bit disappointed that I came fourth—there were tears and all that, you know. But later, because it became such a big success and I sang it in seven or eight languages—even in Japanese—I eventually said, ‘okay.’”
Regarding Akyla and the Greek entry, Leandros said it is the only song she has heard from this year’s contest and predicted it could finish in the top three:
“I listened to Akyla—he’s the only one I’ve heard out of all the songs. And I have to say, I liked it. It’s modern, it’s beautiful, it has heart, it’s somewhat cartoon-like. There’s something completely unique about both the singer and the song. I wish him all the best. We’ve arranged to meet, so I’ll get to know Akyla during rehearsals. I think he could make the top three. I don’t really like giving advice, but I would say: ‘Stay 100% committed to what you want to do and put your whole heart into it, Akyla.’”
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