CyBC general-director Thanasis Tsokos defended Cyprus’ Eurovision 2026 entry ‘JALLA’ on Thursday, labelling it as “a highly professional job.” He addressed concerns regarding the public broadcaster’s song selection process and the production quality during an appearance on CyBC.
Tsokos emphasised that Cyprus’ participation in Eurovision is driven by a strategy of “outward engagement,” drawing on 35 years of experience in the competition. “We know what the competition requires and what the Eurovision audience wants,” he remarked, asserting that the nation’s involvement has “never been marginal.”
The selection process for both the song and artist was explained by Tsokos, who stated they were chosen through a structured method designed to meet Eurovision’s specific demands. “They are chosen so that they can respond to the specific requirements of Eurovision,” he noted.
Amid divided public reactions, Tsokos acknowledged that musical taste is subjective. “Some will like the song, and some will not, that is natural,” he said, defending the entry against calls for its withdrawal from prominent public figures. He reiterated, “What I can say is that this is a highly professional production and Cyprus will appear with a dignified presence.”
On the selection process, he noted that CyBC collaborates closely with record companies knowledgeable about the international market and accepts proposals for artists through them. The final choice was made from a pool of 15 artists, decided by a committee of four music industry professionals and one CyBC representative. “We believe this method delivers better results than an open selection,” he asserted.
Tsokos also revealed plans for a new Cypriot song institution aimed at promoting local artists, clarifying that this initiative would not be directly related to Eurovision. “It is a different institution with different dynamics,” he stated.
Addressing concerns surrounding the video clip for ‘JALLA,’ he shared that it was crafted to showcase appealing aspects of Cyprus on an international stage. “We wanted a video that highlights the artist and the song and captures part of Cyprus that deserves to be shown,” he explained.
In response to criticism of road safety scenes in the initial video, Tsokos confirmed that footage depicting dangerous behaviour, such as motorcycle wheelies, was removed. “Those shots were included incorrectly and have been taken out,” he admitted, assuring that a revised clip would be reposted by the European Broadcasting Union.
On the financial aspects, Tsokos stated that the costs associated with Cyprus’ Eurovision participation are covered within CyBC’s budget, detailing that €50,000 is allocated for participation and an additional €120,000 for production. He noted that the record company also contributes an equivalent amount to support organisational needs.
Tsokos concluded with a nod to the song’s online presence, considering the social media response a positive sign of their efforts. “Social media response is a reward for our work,” he said. “It is a sign that we are targeting dynamic audiences and that we will do very well.”
Earlier, deputy cultural minister Lina Kassianidou shared her personal feelings regarding the song, stating she did not particularly like it but respected CyBC’s decision. “Eurovision is no longer what it was when we were growing up,” she commented, adding, “If the team believes this song has better chances, then it is their decision.”
