Jess Mauboy fails to crack top 10, as Israel wins Eurovision

Jess Mauboy has failed to crack the top 10 at this year’s Eurovision, with Israel’s very eccentric singer, Netta taking home the gold.

Despite Jess, 28, putting on a stellar performance and giving it her all at the song contest final in Portugal, she came in at number 20, right behind the Netherlands and Serbia.

It seems the judges were in the mood for something a little more wacky this year – and boy did the contestants deliver. Israel’s Netta stole the show, and won the night, with a bizarre song and choreography that resembled the chicken dance – clucking included. 

She's not our TOY, but she is a 'beautiful creature'! @NettaBarzilai #ESC2018 #AllAboard #ISR pic.twitter.com/Scr09CQ8X5

— Eurovision Song Contest (@Eurovision) May 12, 2018

Jess meanwhile, went for something a little more traditional, showing off her powerful vocals with a moving and lively rendition of ‘We Got Love’.

After the finals results were announced, fans flocked to social media to air their dismay at the judges’ decision.

“You nailed it Jessica. Best song by far. Loved the touches of Aboriginal dance moves. You did Australia proud,” one fan wrote.

“Cant believe all of europe disrespected jessica mauboy in such a public and insulting way [sic],” added another.

It’s likely the voting system worked against Jess this year, given each participating country, a jury and viewers award between one and a maximum 12 points to their favourite songs. There’s always been a level of contention about Australia participating in the contest given we’re not a part of Europe. And since no country can vote for its own contestant, it was difficult to give Jess the numbers she needed to win.

She may also have been hindered by the success of her predecessors Guy Sebastian, who placed fifth, and the incredible Dami Im, who came in second. Many Eurovision fans had previously taken to social media to air their grievances about Australia claiming top 10 spots, despite its geographic distance from the continent.

This year’s top 10 included Cyprus, Austria and Germany, who came in at places two, three and four respectively, followed by Italy, Czech Republic, Sweden, Estonia, Denmark and Moldova. 

Maybe Australia will have better luck next year, and even though Jess didn’t bring home the gold this time, she’s still a star in our eyes! 

What do you think of Jess’ performance? Do you think she should have placed higher?