In a surprising twist for the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest, it has been confirmed that Topo Gigio, the beloved anthropomorphic mouse and children’s television character, will serve as Italy’s spokesperson for the event, reading out the jury's 12 points during the final on May 17, 2025, in Basel. This decision was reported by QN Magazine on April 15, 2025, and marks a significant moment in Eurovision history as Topo Gigio will become the first non-human spokesperson to take on this role.
Created by Maria Perego, Topo Gigio first appeared on television in 1959 and quickly became a staple of Italian pop culture. His fame expanded internationally after his appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show in 1963, and he has remained a cherished figure in Italy, Latin America, and even former Yugoslavia. Over the years, Topo Gigio has been featured in various media, including animated series and films, and has been voiced by actor Leo Valli since 2010.
His upcoming role at Eurovision follows a successful performance at the 2025 Sanremo Festival, where he sang Domenico Modugno’s iconic 1958 hit "Nel blu, dipinto di blu" alongside Lucio Corsi. Corsi, who finished second at Sanremo, will represent Italy at the Eurovision with his song "Volevo essere un duro," after the original winner, Olly, withdrew from the competition.
While many fans celebrate Topo Gigio's return to the spotlight, the decision has sparked some controversy. Notably, radio host Ema Stokholma expressed her disapproval on social media, stating, "In Europe, nobody knows who he is, and it doesn't seem fair to take this opportunity away from a talent." Stokholma, who hosted Eurovision in 2019, emphasized her belief that the spokesperson role should be reserved for living artists capable of representing Italy more broadly.
Despite the criticism, supporters of Topo Gigio argue that his selection aligns with the spirit of Eurovision, a festival known for celebrating uniqueness and creativity. The character's iconic catchphrase, "Cosa mi dici mai?" (What are you telling me?), is expected to resonate with audiences, as Topo Gigio aims to bring a lighthearted and nostalgic touch to the event.
The Eurovision Song Contest 2025 will kick off with the first semi-final on May 13, followed by the second semi-final on May 15, before culminating in the grand final on May 17. The event will be hosted by Michelle Hunziker, alongside Sandra Studer and Hazel Brugger. As anticipation builds, many are eager to see how Topo Gigio will perform in his new role and whether he can capture the hearts of the international audience.
In a world where the line between entertainment and nostalgia often blurs, Topo Gigio’s participation could symbolize a shift towards embracing cultural icons in contemporary settings. His journey from a beloved children’s character to an international spokesperson reflects a unique narrative that may resonate with both older fans who grew up watching him and younger audiences discovering him anew.
As the Eurovision Song Contest approaches, the debate surrounding Topo Gigio’s role continues to unfold. While some critics question the appropriateness of a puppet representing Italy, others celebrate the opportunity to showcase a piece of Italian cultural heritage on a global stage. The upcoming event promises to be an exciting blend of music, nostalgia, and perhaps a touch of controversy.
With Italy's impressive track record at Eurovision—having finished outside the Top 10 only twice since their return in 2011, including four Top 3 finishes and a victory from Måneskin in 2021—Lucio Corsi will be under pressure to maintain this strong legacy. As the countdown to Eurovision 2025 continues, all eyes will be on both Corsi and Topo Gigio, eager to see how they will represent Italy in this year’s competition.
