The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has verified that the Dutch artist Joost Klein will no longer partake in the Eurovision finale. Klein failed to attend two organised dress rehearsals on Friday due to an enquiry into a presumed occurrence.
A complaint lodged by a lady from the production crew about an incident post Klein’s semi-final performance on Thursday night instigated an investigation by Swedish authorities. The EBU, during the ongoing legal procedure, deemed it unsuitable for Klein to persist in the competition.
Contrary to some media conjecture and social media buzz, the EBU confirmed the incident solely involved Klein and not any additional artist or any team member. The EBU, devoted to maintaining a safework environment for its staff, has a stringent code against improper behaviour at its events. Consequently, Klein’s misconduct against a crew member contravenes competition regulations.
The Eurovision grand finale, marking its 68th year, will go ahead with 25 participating songs in the absence of Klein. The 26-year-old singer-songwriter had previously secured a place in the semi-finals with his upbeat track ‘Europapa’ – a homage to his deceased parents.
The Swedish Police Authority also shared their input on the matter. A statement mentioned a man being probed for unlawful threats allegedly committed at the Malmo Arena on the evening of the semi-finals. Although interrogated by police, this man has not been held. The complainant is a staff member from Eurovision.
The police have completed their enquiry, after interviewing the suspect, the complainant, and any witnesses. The case will adhere to usual legal procedures, with expedited prosecution being employed. The police plan to hand the case over to the prosecutor within weeks. It has been authenticated that the complainant is not a fellow Eurovision performer.
These happenings culminate a year fraught with contention for Eurovision’s grand final round.
The Malmo Arena in Sweden will host the much-anticipated televised final, featuring performers from the ‘big five’ nations – the UK, France, Spain, Germany, and Italy. Joined by defending champions Sweden, and 20 other countries who qualified, they will vie for the champion’s title.
Among these finalists is the Irish contender, Bambie Thug. They secured a place in the final with their rendition of Doomsday Blue, marking the first time an Irish act has reached this stage since 2018, following a vote on their performance. – PA