Ukraine | Vidbir 2019 Judging Panel to Remain the Same

After initial news that we could expect a change to the judging panel lineup for Ukrainian national selection show 'Vidbir 2019', broadcasters STB and UA:PBC have confirmed that the panel will remain the same.

Ukrainian broadcasters have confirmed that Eurovision 2016 winner Jamala, music producer Yevhen Filatov and performer Andriy Danylko who represented Ukraine in 2007 under act Verka Serduchka will once again make up the judging panel and jury for the Ukrainian national selection process. Speaking to STB's head of selection;

"We are pleased with this jury and we still do not see the need to change it. Each of our judges is a professional, everyone is strong in their direction. They perfectly complement each other. Their ratings and the difference in the views on the best song create a field for heated discussions. Who knows, this year something new will be waiting for us, and our jury members will be unanimous in choosing the winner"

There was controversy at Vidbir 2018 when judge Andriy Danylko criticised finalist Tayanna - critiquing that he felt she was miming during her performance of 'Leyla'. Following the contest, Tayanna exclaimed that she would not return to Vidbir whilst Danylko remained on the panel. In the lead-up to the announcement, it was expected for the panel to change and Tayanna has actually expressed interest in competing for a third time as reported here. It is yet to be revealed if any artists will drop out as a result of the panel lineup confirmation.

In addition to Tayanna, other artists that are either rumoured or have confirmed to have submitted a song are Natalia Hordienko, band Mnishek, Nina Boykova, SHAIN LEE, Leo, Paul Manandise and sister duet Anna-Maria. The broadcasters have confirmed that we will have the full lineup confirmed within the next month ahead of the semi finals on February 9th and 16th, with the final of Vidbir 2019 taking place on February 23rd.

In 2018, Melovin took his song 'Under The Ladder' to Lisbon and made it to the final! Despite an incredible performance including a flaming piano and a coffin, Melovin was ranked 26th out 26 by the juries however a strong televote pushed him up to 17th position with a total of 130 points. We caught up with Melovin at Eurovision in Concert in the Netherlands, check out our interview here!

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