The Swiss artist delivers a high-energy performance during the Eurovision semi-final, defying gravity on a spinning metal disc.

Nemo Mettler from Switzerland, who identifies with they/them pronouns, captivated Eurovision fans with an extraordinary performance in the second semi-final. Dressed in a pink skirt and fluffy jumper, Nemo took the stage at the Malmo Arena in Sweden and balanced on a tipping, spinning metal disc while singing and rapping their track, The Code. The operatic dance anthem saw them maintain perfect poise despite the precarious, rotating platform.

As one of the frontrunners for victory in this year’s contest, Nemo expressed before their performance that they were not feeling the pressure, stating, “I don’t feel that much pressure,” despite the high expectations surrounding their act.

Meanwhile, Greece’s Marina Satti also generated a buzz with her semi-final performance of Zari, where journalists and fans in the media room joined in dancing and chanting her name, waving Greek flags. Malta’s Sarah Bonnici opened the evening in a sparkly ensemble, delivering an energetic performance, while Czech Republic’s Aiko stood out in a purple outfit, bringing a rock-inspired edge to her song Pedestal.

France’s Slimane, who had already secured a spot in the final as part of the “Big Five” countries, impressed with his powerful vocal performance of Mon Amour. In contrast, the Netherlands’ Joost Klein closed the show with his quirky and entertaining track Europapa, prompting lively reactions from the press room.

The semi-final was hosted by comedian Petra Mede and Hollywood actress Malin Akerman, and featured tributes to past Eurovision acts who scored the infamous “nul points”, including the UK’s Jemini, who achieved zero points for Cry Baby in 2003.