She’s perhaps Albania’s biggest pop star and to many she was the presumed winner of Albania’s Eurovision 2025 selection show.
But on Sunday night Elvana Gjata fell just short at Festivali i Kënges 63, placing second to Shkodra Elektronike. That’s unleashed a torrent of drama as her fans pick up the pieces — and as her detractors come out of the woodwork.
Amid the furore, Elvana has posted a message on Instagram in which she welcomes constructive criticism, but calls on people to turn down the temperature. The heat was already rising during the live shows, as some audience members openly booed her during the show.
Elvana Gjatta responds to Festivali i Kënges fallout
The “Karnaval” singer said:
“Thank you for all the love, your votes, and the countless messages you sent me during FIK63. I’m so grateful to everyone who supported me all the way to the finals, and I promise to return that love tenfold through my music.
I always wish the best for my country and whoever represents it on international stages. The same goes for Shkodra Elektronik-wishing you an amazing experience at Eurovision 2025!
I welcome constructive criticism as it helps me do better, but let’s keep the conversation free of hate speech-it has no place in music or anywhere else.”
She signed her post, “With Love, Elvana”.
Elvana is not the only FiK 63 contestant who has had to speak out during this intense week of competition.
Speaking to Wiwibloggs after Semi-Final 1, Ardit Cuni had strong words for fans who, he says, have no idea about the stress and strain artists face to put on a good show.
“You know a good word won’t hurt anybody,” he said. “If you don’t support me, you don’t need to be toxic.”
What do you make of the fallout? Are you proud of Elvana Queen for holding her head high and responding to the hate? And what can we do to let the love unite us all? Let us know down below.
