In an interview with the French newspaper “20 minutes”, Alexandra Redde-Amiel, France’s Head of delegation, revealed details regarding what they have in store for their Eurovision 2026 performance.
A different direction for France
Alexandra Redde‑Amiel told 20 Minutes that France is taking a new direction this year. She admitted that the change brings some stress, but the positive online reactions have boosted her excitement and passion for the contest.
People are already saying that Monroe is a diva, a queen, etc. At only 17 years old, Monroe is already well loved in this first step towards the contest.
When asked whether the pop‑opera style was influenced by the last two Eurovision winners, Alexandra explained that the goal was simply to avoid the usual “variété française” route.
What was important for us was to bring something different this year compared to previous editions.
Eurovision 2026 staging
Alexandra revealed that the staging will be very different from what France usually presents. The performance will be highly theatrical, built around the idea of “Regarde Moi!” — “Look at me.”
The song carries many messages; we want to look at the world, to look people in the eyes. Monroe’s performance will be intense.
Alexandra believes that a Eurovision entry can no longer be just “radio friendly.” Instead, it must create a moment. For that reason, no two live performances of “REGARDE!” will be identical. Each one will include surprises.
Jury and public vote expectations
The public vote remains a slight concern, but the priority is preparing Monroe like a champion. The jury will focus on vocal perfection, and Alexandra is confident Monroe will deliver. She hopes Monroe will captivate viewers and form a connection with the audience during those three minutes.
France’s Eurovision History
France is a powerhouse in Eurovision, debuting in the first contest in 1956. Their first entries finished in second place, but no scores were ever published. Since then, France has gone on to win the contest five times. The most recent win came in 1977, with Marie Myriam’s “L’oiseau et l’enfant”, scoring 136 points.France has seen a rebirth in results following a change in direction in 2016. Amir finished in 6th position for France with “J’ai cherché”, followed by 12th, 13th and 16th places, respectively.
For 2024, France continued to choose internally, choosing Louane with her song “Maman”. At the close of voting in Basel, France finished in 7th place, earning 230 points. Of these, 180 points were given by the juries, whilst the televote allocated an extra 50 points to France.
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News source : 20 minutes
Photo credits : France Télévisions
Giwrgos Oiko