Austrian broadcaster ORF has revealed the power duo to host Eurovision 2026: Victoria Swarovski and Michael Ostrowski
Austria has long been a cradle for diverse talent, and few modern figures embody this better than Victoria Swarovski and Michael Ostrowski. While they hail from different creative spheres, one a glamorous entrepreneur and host, the other a sharp-witted actor and filmmaker, both have redefined what it means to be a “multi-hyphenate” in the European entertainment industry.
Victoria Swarovski
Born in Innsbruck, Victoria Swarovski is far more than a name associated with world-famous crystals. Though she belongs to the storied Swarovski dynasty, she charted her own course from a young age.
Her journey began in the music industry, signing with Sony at 16 and later honing her craft in Los Angeles alongside industry giants like Diane Warren. However, it was her 2016 win on Let’s Dance that catapulted her into the television stratosphere. Since then, she has transitioned from contestant to judge to the lead host of the show.
Victoria’s ambition extends well beyond the camera lens:
- Beauty & Fashion: She launched her skincare brand, ORIMEI, in 2020 and has graced the covers of Forbes and Vogue.
- Design: Deeply connected to her Tyrolean roots, she has designed modern fashion collections and traditional dirndls.
- Adrenaline: In early 2026, she proved her grit by competing in the Dakar Rally, conquering one of the most grueling endurance challenges in motorsports.
Michael Ostrowski
Hailing from Leoben, Michael Ostrowski is a cornerstone of Austrian cinema. Known for his impeccable comedic timing and effortless charm, Ostrowski is a rare talent who is equally comfortable in front of the camera as he is behind it.
His breakthrough came in 2004 with the hit film Nacktschnecken, and he has since become a fixture in popular series like Eberhoferkrimi. However, Michael is much more than a performer; he is a prolific creator. He has written and directed acclaimed projects such as Hotel Rock’n’Roll and Der Onkel, the latter of which he also adapted into a novel.
His accolades reflect his versatility:
- Screen & Stage: A highly sought-after host for prestigious events like the Nestroy Theater Prize.
- Award-Winning Presenter: Recently honored with an Austrian Romy award for his work on 100 Years of Radio.
ORF Programme Director Stefanie Groiss-Horowitz commented:
“Victoria Swarovski and Michael Ostrowski are two motivated, exciting and extraordinary personalities who will guide us through the spectacular shows of the Eurovision Song Contest. Our goal is to thrill an international audience from all over the world with a sensational TV experience. We developed a concept and then searched for the right hosts – and we found them! Victoria Swarovski and Michael Ostrowski are an exciting and unique pair. Both with great passion for the Contest and two excellent ambassadors for the cause, who will be remembered for a long time with their performance.”
Eurovision 2026 will be held in Vienna, Austria, on May 12th, 14th, and 16th, 2026.
