Sad news: Peter Urban cancels ESC comeback due to fall

Sad news: Peter Urban cancels ESC comeback due to fall

Peter Urban, the German voice of the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) for decades, cannot take part in Stefan Raab's planned countdown show "Chefsache ESC - Live from Basel". The 77-year-old had to cancel his participation due to a serious fall caused by his disability, a missing hip joint. According to his wife Laura Urban, who spoke to RTL, he cannot travel because of the painful consequences.

Urban, who has been commentating on the ESC since 1997 and has accompanied the ESC entertainment shows 25 times during this time, very much regrets not being able to be there. Despite his retirement as a TV commentator in 2023, Urban retains a close connection to the competition, which has not lost its magic for him after more than 25 years. Thorsten Schorn, who took his place last year, will continue to provide German commentary.

Countdown to the show

The Eurovision Song Contest 2025, which began on Tuesday with the first semi-final, will end on Saturday with the grand final. Germany, which has already qualified for the final, will be represented by participants Abor & Tynna, selected by Stefan Raab. Raab's countdown show accompanies the siblings and offers background stories and analyzes of their appearance.

Numerous guests are expected to support, including Michelle Hunziker, Conchita Wurst, Luca Hänni, Thorsten Schorn, Elton and last year's ESC winner Nemo. Despite his absence, Urban remains a loyal fan of the competition and will continue to follow the ESC.

The severity of his fall has affected Urban, but the memories of his time as a commentator will help him continue to experience the anticipation of ESC events. The show, which will have to take place without him, will certainly have a special place in the history of the competition.

For more information about Peter's Urban absence and the current ESC 2025 you can read the reports from RND and t online see.