Brigham City teen chosen for Eurovision, representing France

BRIGHAM CITY — A Utah teen will be representing France at the world-renowned Eurovision Song Contest this coming May.

Monroe Rigby, 17, was born and raised in Utah and spent most of her childhood in and around Brigham City.

Monroe began singing in her church choir at 7½ years old. She took piano and voice lessons and participated in musical theater and youth opera. Over the years, she honed her craft as a French-American lyric soprano, performing classical, opera and even pop music.

"She works very hard," Monroe's mom, Martine Rigby, told KSL. "She has this incredible opportunity, and she's done it with grace."

Martine Rigby, who is from France, said that she is excited for her daughter to represent France on such a large stage.

In late 2024, when Monroe was 16, her musical career took a turn when a family member suggested she enter a French music competition.

"My aunt recommended I audition for a classical art competition in France," Monroe told KSL. "It was televised with 4 million viewers, and I won."

The competition was a French TV series, "Prodiges," that showcased young talent, aged 7 to 16, in classical music, dance and singing. Winning the competition also earned Monroe a recording contract with Warner Classics.

That win and subsequent record deal led her to release her first album titled "Monroe." Earlier this month, she was chosen to perform her song "Regarde" at the Eurovision Song Contest, which has over 150 million viewers.

"It's very exciting because I remember watching Eurovision with my parents growing up," Monroe said. "I love this competition because it shows appreciation for all cultures and music. It's just so much about the music and how we can connect with others."

The song's title means "to look" in French, and Monroe said she loves singing it because it has such a universal message.

"The song talks about a universal love," she said. "I feel like a lot of times we are focused on other things and don't stop to look at the love that is all around us."

Monroe and her mom have been living in France to prepare for the competition and while Monroe pursues her career. They both said they are grateful for family and friends in Utah who have been supporting them, adding that viewers in the states can also vote for the winner.

"My dad, brothers and my dad's whole family is still in Utah," Monroe said. "We call them every day, and we miss them so much. I'm grateful for their support.

"I'm so grateful for this opportunity to represent my culture to 150 million people. It is an honor and ... you don't get a chance to do every day."

The Eurovision competition starts May 16 and can be viewed on YouTube.

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