Netherlands’ Joost Klein Booted from the Eurovision Contest

The Swedish police are investigating a complaint against Klein by a female crew member, as confirmed by the organizers.

The complaint was filed after Klein missed two Malmo dress rehearsals following his performance in the Semi-Final on Thursday night.

The European Broadcast Union (EBU), the organizer of the Contest, stated that, pending the legal process, Klein’s participation in the Contest would not be appropriate. Consequently, no points will be awarded to the Netherlands from the viewing public, and telecommunications partners will be notified to block the lines for song five.

We hebben kennis genomen van de diskwalificatie door de EBU. @AVROTROS vindt de diskwalificatie disproportioneel en is geschokt door de beslissing. We betreuren het enorm en komen er later inhoudelijk op terug. #eurovision2024 #europapa #joostklein pic.twitter.com/OBBLl2mU5x

— Songfestival (@songfestival) May 11, 2024

Organizers clarified that the incident was unrelated to Israel’s delegation and involved only Klein. It remains uncertain whether Klein remained in Malmo on Saturday.

This last-minute disqualification is unprecedented in Eurovision’s 68-year history, although countries have been expelled. Dutch broadcaster AVROTOS expressed shock at the decision, considering it disproportionate.

The EBU emphasized a zero-tolerance policy towards inappropriate behaviour, deeming Klein’s actions a breach of Contest rules. The 26-year-old Dutch singer and rapper, once a favourite, faced disqualification despite his song “Europapa” being a tribute to the continent and his deceased parents.

The competition’s controversy extended to the inclusion of Israel, prompting protests from Palestinians and supporters who argue for its exclusion due to civilian casualties in Gaza.

©M10news 2024