When Conchita Wurst of Austria first stepped onto the Eurovision stage, tensions and concerns immediately arose over whether Europe was ready to support a gender-bending drag queen in this iconic international competition. However, over the course of the singing competition, Conchita won many hearts and fans across the globe. The Eurovision Song Contest came to a close today, and Conchita Wurst was announced the winner to a TV audience of more than 120 million. Yes, 120 MILLION PEOPLE! This win for Conchita makes him the first drag queen to ever win the competition.
The crowning of Conchita Wurst comes at an interesting time, and is somewhat surprising to many, given the political undertones that Eurovision can undertake. With the global tensions over Russia's new anti-gay policies, there were a lot of those who thought Wurst would be too provocative for some of the traditionally conservative audiences he was performing to. However, the Eurovision viewers and judges have certainly spoken, and Conchita's talents shined through during his emotional and stunning ballad, 'Rise Like A Phoenix,' during the finale to help him rise to the top. You can watch the full performance below:
The crowning of Conchita Wurst comes at an interesting time, and is somewhat surprising to many, given the political undertones that Eurovision can undertake. With the global tensions over Russia's new anti-gay policies, there were a lot of those who thought Wurst would be too provocative for some of the traditionally conservative audiences he was performing to. However, the Eurovision viewers and judges have certainly spoken, and Conchita's talents shined through during his emotional and stunning ballad, 'Rise Like A Phoenix,' during the finale to help him rise to the top. You can watch the full performance below:
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Conchita's win was the first for Austria since 1966, and it's one that definitely has people talking. Not only does it hold some weight on the international politics spectrum, but the gender-bending winner also has provided a light of hope for those struggling with harsh anti-LGBTQ laws within their own countries.
Conchita's vocal talentes earned him the win, but we're also gagging over his stunning fashion sense, the beautifully executed androgyny that he brought with him to the stage week after week. You can check out some of his looks below:
Conchita's vocal talentes earned him the win, but we're also gagging over his stunning fashion sense, the beautifully executed androgyny that he brought with him to the stage week after week. You can check out some of his looks below:
Condragulations to Conchita Wurst on his big win! We can't wait to see where his talents take him next!
