Dana International
Eurovision Song Contest 1998 winner, Israeli pop icon
Dana International (born Sharon Cohen on February 2, 1972) is an Israeli singer, entertainer, and television personality who achieved international fame by winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 1998 with the song 'Diva.' Her victory made her the first openly transgender woman to win the competition, a landmark moment in Eurovision history. International is one of Israel's most successful and recognizable entertainers, with a career spanning several decades. She has released numerous albums and singles in Hebrew and English, achieving significant commercial success in Israel and throughout Europe. Beyond her music career, she has appeared in Israeli films and television programs, demonstrating her versatility as an entertainer. Dana International is also a cultural icon in Israel, known for her bold personality and contributions to LGBTQ+ visibility and representation in the Middle East. Her 1998 Eurovision win remains one of the most memorable moments in the competition's history, and she continues to perform and maintain a presence in entertainment.
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Entertainment
Israeli
1972
Thinking about the name
Dana
Hebrew origin
“Derived from the Hebrew Dinah, meaning 'judged' or 'vindicated,' Dana evolved as an English short form that gained independent popularity in the 20th century. The name carries a bright, straightforward quality and has been used across genders, though it became particularly fashionable for girls from the 1960s onward. Its simplicity and strength have made it enduringly appealing to parents seeking a name that is both classic and modern.”