Eurovision made me realise that I was autistic at 34
A TV critic reflects on how the sensory overload of the Eurovision Song Contest helped them realize they were autistic at age 34. The piece explores the intersection of personal identity, neurodivergence, and cultural obsession.
Why it matters
Personal narratives about neurodiversity help increase public awareness and understanding of the autistic experience.
‘Most of my youth had consisted of trying to work out how I could work at the contest if it ever ended up in the UK again.’ Illustration: Martin O’Neill ‘Most of my youth had consisted of trying to work out how I could work at the contest if it ever ended up in the UK again.’ Illustration: Martin O’Neill My cultural awakening Eurovision Eurovision made me realise that I was autistic at 34 I had always dreamed of attending the song contest. But all that glitter brought on sensory overload – and I finally understood who I actually was
Scott Bryan Sat 12 Sep 2026 07.00 EDT Share Prefer the Guardian on Google T he Eurovision song contest meant a lot to me growing up. The eclectic performances. Terry Wogan’s despair. The yearly tradition of Greece giving “douze points” to Cyprus and Cyprus giving “douze points” to Greece.
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