Every Eurovision season brings a new wave of talent, passion, and stories, and this year is no exception. Among the shining stars of Dora 2025, Croatia’s national selection for Eurovision, is Marko Bošnjak – with his electrifying entry Poison Cake, Marko returns to the Dora stage, determined to captivate both juries and audiences alike.

Having first participated in Dora 2022 with Moli za nas and securing a stellar second place, Marko has already made a name for himself.

But this year, he’s back with a bolder vision, an international team, and a message that resonates deeply with fans worldwide.

Marko’s journey began early. By age 11, he was already making waves in the regional singing competition Pinkove Zvezdice, where his talent was undeniable. Winning the competition not only marked the start of his career but also set him on a path towards Eurovision:

“We had Eurovision artists in the jury, and that was additional motivation to one day be on that stage.”

— Marko Bošnjak

Fast forward to his teenage years, and Marco was no longer just a child star. His participation in Dora 2022 showcased his growth as an artist and opened doors to a wider international audience:

“It was surreal having people from Spain, Poland, and Switzerland listening to my music.”

— Marko Bošnjak

This year’s Poison Cake marks a significant evolution in Marko’s artistry. The song dives into deep, often unspoken emotions of frustration, anger, and the need for justice.

“It’s about standing up for yourself and reclaiming control.”

— Marko Bošnjak

The metaphorical and theatrical nature of the track allows audiences to connect with the raw emotions it conveys, creating an immersive experience.

An impressive international team, including Emma Gale, Ben Pyne, Bas Wissink, and Croatian producer Filip Majdak, helped bring Poison Cake to life. Marko’s involvement in shaping the song’s final form reflects his dedication to authenticity. This collaborative process has resulted in a track that’s both deeply personal and universally relatable:

“They valued my opinion and encouraged me to make the song my own.”

— Marko Bošnjak

When it comes to staging Poison Cake at Dora, Marko promises an unforgettable performance:

“It’s going to be goofy, dark, mysterious, and full of surprises.”

— Marko Bošnjak

With a team dedicated to crafting a visually stunning and emotionally charged presentation, Marko is confident in their ability to transport viewers into a different reality.

“We’re creating a completely new world on stage, and I’m excited for people to experience it.”

— Marko Bošnjak

Rehearsals are in full swing, and Marko’s commitment to excellence shines through:

“I want to be so prepared that if you wake me up at 3 a.m., I’ll deliver my performance at 150%.”

— Marko Bošnjak

Emphasizing the importance of self-care, breathing exercises, and staying grounded. His approach ensures that he remains focused and ready to tackle any challenge.

Marko’s love for Eurovision goes beyond participation. As a fan and performer, he cherishes iconic moments and songs, with Croatia’s Moja štikla holding a special place in his heart.

Hosting Zagreb’s first-ever Eurovision after-party last year was another highlight.

“It was a beautiful sense of community and energy. I’d love to see it become an annual tradition.”

— Marko Bošnjak

For now, Marko’s focus remains on delivering a memorable performance at Dora and sharing the story of Poison Cake with the world.

---

Let us know in the comments and on our social media profiles @buildingbridgespod what you thought of the interview!

Title Image: Tijana Ksenija