Celine Dion will not be making an appearance at this year’s Eurovision Song Contest, despite weeks of speculation suggesting otherwise.
The 57-year-old singer, who famously won Eurovision for Switzerland in 1988, became the subject of rumors after reports surfaced that her private jet had been spotted in Basel, the host city of the 2025 contest. Many fans believed she might return to mark the 37th anniversary of her career-defining victory.
The speculation grew stronger after Dion reflected publicly on what Switzerland has meant to her since that milestone performance. “It’s a country that believed in me and gave me the chance to be part of something so extraordinary,” she said. “It was a life-changing moment for me, and I’m so thankful for everyone who supported me.”
Though Dion did not take the stage, her presence was felt in Basel. Performers Silvester Belt and Iolanda paid tribute by delivering a heartfelt rendition of her Eurovision-winning song Ne Partez Pas Sans Moi. The gesture drew warm applause from the audience and reminded viewers of her enduring connection to the contest.
Still, some fans speculated online that Dion’s absence might be related to her ongoing health challenges. Those rumors prompted a firm response from her representatives, who issued a statement to put the speculation to rest.
“We would like to address the false reporting regarding Celine Dion and the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest earlier this year,” the statement read. “Celine was not in Basel, nor did she ever plan to attend, perform, or present at the event. Furthermore, contrary to certain claims, she does not own a private plane.”
The representatives went further, calling on media outlets to exercise greater responsibility in their coverage. “We urge journalists and platforms to prioritize accuracy and integrity in their reporting, rather than chasing clicks and views,” the statement concluded.
While fans may be disappointed not to see Dion return to the Eurovision stage, her legacy with the competition remains undeniable. Her 1988 win launched an international career that has since made her one of the best-selling artists of all time. And even from afar, her music continues to resonate with audiences at Eurovision and beyond.