Sam Battle, aka Look Mum No Computer, to Represent the UK at Eurovision 2026 Amid Ongoing Contest Controversy

The BBC has announced that YouTuber and electronic musician Sam Battle, known by his stage name Look Mum No Computer, will represent the United Kingdom at the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna, Austria. Battle, who launched his YouTube channel in 2016, has built a large following through his inventive approach to electronic music, creating and performing with unusual handmade instruments. His creations include an organ constructed from Furbies and Game Boys, flame-throwing keyboards, and even a Star Wars droid orchestra. Describing himself as a long-time Eurovision fan, Battle said he is honored to fly the flag for the UK and promised to bring his full creative vision to the performance. Details of his competition song will be released in the coming weeks.

The announcement comes during a turbulent period for Eurovision. Several countries—including Iceland, the Netherlands, Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia—have withdrawn from the 2026 contest in protest over Israel’s continued participation. The controversy follows the introduction of stricter rules after allegations of Israeli government interference in the previous year’s event. Despite calls for exclusion, a majority vote by participating members confirmed Israel’s place in the competition. Israeli broadcaster KAN described attempts to remove the country as a cultural boycott, while President Isaac Herzog publicly defended Israel’s participation.

This year’s contest marks Eurovision’s 70th anniversary. Organizers had planned an official live tour featuring past acts from across the decades, but the tour was recently canceled due to unforeseen challenges. Contest director Martin Green said the decision was difficult but promised the tour would return when conditions allow for a world-class experience.