Judging Panel Defends Eurosong Selection Amid Samantha Mumba’s Criticism

Dublin, Ireland – A member of the judging panel for Ireland’s Eurosong competition has defended the panel against criticism from runner-up Samantha Mumba, who questioned their credentials and described some of their remarks as “unnecessarily rude.”

Mumba, a well-known Irish singer famous for her 2000 hit Gotta Tell You, finished second in the national selection with her track My Way.

The competition, held on The Late Late Show on RTÉ, was won by Norwegian singer EMMY with Laika Party, a song paying tribute to Laika, the first living creature launched into space by the Soviet Union in 1957. EMMY will now represent Ireland at the Eurovision Song Contest in May.

Panel’s Feedback Sparks Controversy

The judging panel consisted of choreographer and Dancing with the Stars judge Arthur Gourounlian, 2FM broadcaster Laura Fox, celebrity chef and TV presenter Donal Skehan, and Bambie Thug, who represented Ireland at last year’s Eurovision.

Gourounlian critiqued Mumba’s song, stating: “It was very long to start. It felt like 10 different demos put together in one song. The vocals were there, but I couldn’t relate at all.” Skehan, while acknowledging Mumba’s musical legacy, suggested a revamp could improve the song’s Eurovision chances.

“I loved that there was a dining table involved in the routine. Samantha is a phenomenal part of music history. I think if she goes to Eurovision, there is an opportunity for a revamp,” he said.

Laura Fox described Mumba as “an icon in her own right,” but questioned whether My Way was suited for Eurovision, adding that “Eurovision is its own beast in itself, and this song might be a little too slow to get into it.” Bambie Thug echoed the idea of a revamp, suggesting it could “elevate the song more.”

Mumba’s Response and Skehan’s Defense

Following the competition, Mumba took to Instagram to thank her supporters and stand by her performance. “Those that got it, GOT IT… and those that didn’t, that’s OK too. It’s my art, and I stand by it,” she wrote.

She went on to criticize the judging panel—excluding Bambie Thug—stating that they lacked the credentials and experience required for their role and were overly harsh on the contestants.

Skehan, in a response posted on Instagram, defended the panel and rejected Mumba’s claims. “Each of us was chosen for our experience, insights, and passion for Eurovision.

Everyone on that panel took their role seriously and approached the night with thoughtfulness, integrity, and respect for the artists,” he said.

Addressing concerns about his qualifications, Skehan highlighted his own musical background.

“It might be easy to write me off as just a TV chef, but my career began in music. I’ve had two number-one singles in Ireland with my band, Industry, supported acts like JLS and The Pussycat Dolls, and competed in Eurosong in 2008.”

RTÉ Stands by Judges

RTÉ also defended the panel’s participation, stating that their role was to give honest and constructive feedback.

“Our panel did this in a thoughtful and considered way. It seems this was in line with the public vote that ultimately made the decision on the artist and song they wished to represent Ireland at this year’s contest,” an RTÉ spokesperson said.

As the debate continues, Ireland’s Eurovision hopes now rest with EMMY, whose performance of Laika Party will aim to bring success to the nation on the global stage in May.

 

This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members