She’s the Russian X Factor star whose ticket to Eurovision 2017 was cancelled. But Julia Samoylova is determined to make it to Portugal. The star has reportedly told Russian media that she has prepared two songs as potential Eurovision entries. But broadcaster Channel One is yet to confirm her as Russia’s act for Lisbon.

Russian magazine Antenna-Telesem is reported to have published an interview with the singer where she talks about her Eurovision 2018 bid.

Julia is said to have co-written two songs with her husband/manager Alexei Taran. One is about a fairytale, the other is on the theme of space. Both space and fairytales are attractive themes for Eurovision songs, as Alexander Rybak and Slavko Kalezic will testify.

The X Factor runner-up also revealed that she is ready to sing in Russian, English or even Portuguese.

She said she’d like to keep the same high-tech staging that was planned for her “Flame is Burning” performance in Kyiv. “I want to show it exactly,” she explained.

Julia also discussed her ideas for the costume. “We will choose a dress for the song, but I do not want anything classic.”

She was clear that she wanted to move away from her X Factor image. During her time on the popular talent show in 2013, she became known for her edgy fashions, with rock chick styles and Gaga-inspired avant-garde costumes.

For a potential Eurovision appearance, Julia imagines soft curls, with “crystals on my face and horns on my head”.

But as busy as Julia has been, she still hasn’t been confirmed as Russia’s act for Lisbon. Broadcaster Channel One is yet to make any statement on Russia’s selection for Eurovision 2018, though it is assumed they will again internally select their act.

JULIA SAMOYLOVA AND EUROVISION

Julia was originally announced as Russia’s act for Eurovision 2017 back in March. Channel One had internally selected the X Factor runner-up, who would perform the song “Flame is Burning”.

However, controversy soon erupted when Ukraine authorities banned Julia from entering Ukraine for three years after having previously travelled to the Crimea region. This led to Russia withdrawing from Eurovision, which ended Julia’s chance for 2017.

At the time, Russian broadcasters Channel One and Russia-1 issued a joint statement which promised that Julia would have the chance to represent Russia at Eurovision 2018.

We previously heard from Julia in October when she commented on the issue during a live chat with fans. She said:

“Regarding the Eurovision song — no guys, the song for Eurovision has not even been chosen yet. Well, they say that I will go. I hope that the end of the world won’t come and everything will be fine … And we will go to Eurovision.”

Julia also recently performed on a New Year’s Eve television special. Despite fans assuming the event would also be her confirmation for Lisbon, no announcement was made.

What do you think? Which of Julia’s two songs is best for Eurovision? Should Channel One select her as their act for Lisbon? Share your thoughts below!