Commentary Box

The voice of Austria connecting viewers to the contest since 1970.

The Commentary Box serves as the critical link between the Eurovision Song Contest spectacle and the Austrian audience. For nearly three decades, from 1970 to 1998, radio journalist and actor Ernst Grissemann provided the voice of Austria for every contest except 1979 and 1990. In a unique twist that highlights the adaptability required in this role, Grissemann admitted he often attended only the dress rehearsal before broadcasting live from ORF studios rather than the arena itself. Following his departure in 1998, Andi Knoll took over the duties.

Lore & Background

Ernst Grissemann's tenure defined a unique era of Austrian commentary that blended professional broadcasting with personal improvisation. Between 1970 and 1998, he was the constant voice for Austrians watching the contest, missing only the 1979 and 1990 editions. His approach was unconventional; in 1995, he confessed to future German commentator Peter Urban that he frequently skipped the live event at the arena, attending solely the dress rehearsal before providing commentary from the safety of the ORF studios. When Grissemann stepped down in 1998, Andi Knoll succeeded him, continuing the tradition of Austrian narration.