Alexander Rybak returns to “Melodi Grand Prix 2026″, reflecting on his past. In a candid interview, he apologizes for his controversial on-stage kiss with Lena Meyer-Landrut and speaks openly about overcoming addiction.
Former Eurovision winner Alexander Rybak shared a New Year’s post on his Instagram account, mentioning a date that led European fans to suspect that the artist, who has represented Norway twice and won Eurovision 2009 by a landslide, is planning a return to the competition, set to take place in Vienna, Austria.
Alexander Rybak, the man and the violin who brought Norway a historic Eurovision victory with “Fairytale” in 2009, is making a comeback this year at “Melodi Grand Prix 2026″, in hopes of representing his country for the third time. But this musical return also brings a moment of deep reflection on one of Eurovision’s most talked-about and controversial moments.
In an intimate interview with Norway’s national broadcaster NRK, Rybak expressed regret for the first time about the infamous moment during the 2010 Eurovision final in Oslo. When presenting the trophy to the German winner Lena Meyer-Landrut, he unexpectedly kissed her live on stage in front of millions of viewers. The moment went viral instantly, sparking widespread debate across Europe about boundaries and consent during live broadcasts. Rybak explained that the impulsive act came from pure adrenaline and joy, not from any ill intent – but admits today that it was inappropriate:
“I didn’t understand the seriousness of it at the time, […] I don’t want to hide behind the excuse that ‘it was a different era.’ It was unprofessional of me. I regret it and wish it had never happened, but I hope young men today can see this as a clear example of how not to behave”.
Cracks in the Perfect Image?
Rybak has spent recent years navigating the challenges of growing up in the spotlight – transitioning from “child prodigy” to mature artist. This incident joins a series of personal revelations he has shared about mental health struggles and past addictions.
His apology drew mixed reactions: while fans were quick to forgive, calling it a “harmless human mistake”, Norwegian media critics argued that in 2026, on-air behavior is held to strict standards – and even Eurovision legends are not exempt.
Stalker, Pills, and Turning Point
The interview sheds light on the heavy personal toll fame took on Rybak, particularly during his years in the United States. He revealed that while living in Los Angeles, he was stalked for several years by an obsessive fan.
“It scared me to death. I was absolutely terrified of her”.
He recalled. He also opened up about his struggle with addiction to sleeping pills and prescription medication – a coping mechanism that grew into dangerous dependency. Rybak proudly noted that he has been completely “clean” since 2020. “I don’t want to return to that place”, he declared, returning to this year’s competition sober, self-aware, and stronger than ever.
Looking Forward to 2026
Now clean, mature, and ready for a fresh start, Rybak takes the stage again with hopes of closing a long personal and artistic circle. Whether Norwegian audiences will embrace this new version of their national hero remains to be seen.
The grand final of “Melodi Grand Prix 2026″ will take place on February 28th at Håkons Hall in Lillehammer.
Norway at Eurovision 2025
“Lighter” was the song performed by Kyle Alessandro, who represented Norway in the Eurovision 2025 grand final. Norway finished in 18th place overall with 89 points – 67 points from the audience and 22 points from the juries. In the televote, Norway ranked 12th, while in the jury vote, it reached 23rd place.
Eurovision 2026: This will be Norway’s 64th participation in Eurovision. Norway joined the competition in 1960 and has won three times over the years. Their last win was in Eurovision 2009 with the song “Fairytale” performed by Alexander Rybak.
Email: [email protected]
Roie is a journalist, content creator, and commentator specializing in the Eurovision Song Contest. His extensive knowledge and in-depth familiarity with the Eurovision world are reflected in every article, ensuring reliable, professional, and up-to-date content.
