Switzerland approaches the grand finale of the 66th Eurovision Song Contest in Turin with cautious optimism as singer Marius Bear prepares to perform his entry “Boys Do Cry.” Following his qualification during the semi-finals, the 29-year-old Appenzell native competes on the international stage while drawing enthusiastic support from a roster of former Swiss Eurovision representatives.
Swiss Finalists Rally Behind Marius Bear
Swiss artists who previously walked the Eurovision stage have shared their perspectives on Bear’s prospects in Turin. Sandra Studer, who represented Switzerland in 1991 and finished in fifth place, credits Bear with boosting national engagement. “I find it great that Switzerland has qualified for the final for the third time in a row,” Studer says, thanking Bear for making the broadcast more emotional and exciting for domestic viewers.
Daniela Simmons, who secured second place for Switzerland in 1986, points to the emotional resonance of Bear’s stripped-back presentation. Noting that Portugal won the contest in 2017 with a similarly understated ballad, Simmons suggests a top-ten finish is entirely achievable. Francine Jordi, the 2002 Swiss representative, praises Bear’s composure during technical hiccups in the semi-finals and describes his vocal delivery as having no direct competition.
Peter Reber, a veteran of four Eurovision appearances with Peter, Sue & Marc between 1971 and 1981, expresses even higher ambitions. Reber argues that presenting a sincere song amid standard contest spectacle requires courage, suggesting that a top-five placement or an outright victory is possible, though he acknowledges strong sympathy for Ukraine’s competing entry.
Contest Strategy and Public Reception
Other former participants emphasize the unique qualities of Bear’s musical style against the broader field of competitors. Gjon’s Tears, who represented Switzerland in 2020 and 2021, notes that “Boys Do Cry” stands out by eschewing party anthems and choreographed dance routines in favor of quiet introspection. Miruna Manescu of the 2017 group Timebelle highlights Bear’s distinct vocal timbre and vulnerability as core strengths that connect with listeners on an authentic level.
At the same time, returning artists acknowledge the intense pressure facing the Swiss delegation. Michael von la Heide, Switzerland’s 2010 representative, and Luca Hänni, who finished fourth in 2019, both stress the importance of vocal precision and emotional connection during the live broadcast before an estimated audience of 180 million viewers. The grand finale broadcasts live on SRF 1.
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