Israeli Singer Noa Kirel Qualifies for 2023 Eurovision Song Contest Grand Final with “Unicorn”

Israeli singer Noa Kirel has qualified for the grand final of the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool with her song “Unicorn.” Kirel co-wrote the song with Doron Medalie, Yinon Yahel, and May Sfadia. She delivered a poppy performance during the first semifinal, and her victory was celebrated by Israeli fans. She will compete for the top prize on Saturday night. Kirel has said that the song is a message of acceptance and self-empowerment, and she hopes to represent her country with pride at the grand final.

Kirel’s victory was significant given the current military operation in Gaza, which caused some to fear negative attention and possible politicized voting. Kirel issued a statement ahead of the contest saying that “security is the most important thing at the moment,” and she hoped to hearten citizens of Israel.

Oddsmakers predict that Kirel will finish in seventh place, which would be the best result for Israel since Netta Barzilai won with “Toy” in 2018. Sweden’s Loreen is considered the favorite to win this year’s contest with her power ballad “Tattoo.”

In a new voting system, the semifinal rounds are judged solely by the televote, with residents of countries not competing in the contest also eligible to vote. The grand final will be held on Saturday, with contestants from the semifinals and last year’s winner, Ukraine, as well as the “Big Five” countries: the UK, Germany, France, Spain, and Italy.

About Noa Kirel

Noa Kirel is a talented Israeli singer, actress, and television host who was born on April 10, 2001, in Ra’anana, Israel. She first gained recognition in 2016 when she participated in “The Next Star,” Israel’s version of “American Idol,” where she finished in fifth place.

In 2017, Kirel released her debut single “Medabrim Al Ze” (Talking About It), which quickly became a huge hit in Israel, propelling her to stardom. The music video for the song has surpassed 100 million views on YouTube, making Kirel one of Israel’s most successful singers on the platform. She has since released several other popular singles, including “Drunk on You,” “Yesh Bi Ahava” (I Have Love in Me), and “Please Don’t Suck.”

In addition to her music career, Kirel has also showcased her acting skills in various Israeli television shows and movies, including “The Greenhouse,” “When Heroes Fly,” and “Just for Today.” She has also hosted several TV programs, including “The Next Star” and “X Factor Israel.”

Kirel’s exceptional talent and hard work have earned her several awards for her music, including the 2021 Israeli Music Award for “Best Female Singer.” She is regarded as one of the most promising young talents in Israel’s entertainment industry.