Joost Klein, the Netherlands’ Eurovision contestant, has been disqualified from the contest after allegedly making verbal threats towards a female member of the production crew, according to police. He was placed under investigation by the organisers and was not allowed to perform his song ‘Europapa’ during the final dress rehearsal. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which organises the contest, said “Swedish police have investigated a complaint made by a female member of the production crew after an incident following his performance in Thursday night’s Semi Final. While the legal process takes its course, it would not be appropriate for him to continue in the Contest.”
AVROTROS, the Dutch broadcaster, has responded to EBU’s decision, stating “We have taken note of the disqualification by the EBU. AVOTROS finds the disqualification disproportionate and is shocked by the decision. We deeply regret this and will come back to this later.” Klein had been considered a possible favourite to win the contest with ‘Europapa’, a pro-Europe techno anthem dedicated to his father, who passed away from cancer when the singer was 12.
The Eurovision Song Contest is proceeding tonight with 25 countries participating. This incident marks the first time a contestant has been disqualified before the final despite having participated in the semi-final. The case has been handed over to prosecutors in the region. Though Klein has been questioned by police, he has not been taken into custody.
In other Eurovision news, Ireland’s representative Bambie Thug has called on the EBU to “show some humanity” over its handling of political issues as controversy related to Israel’s inclusion continues
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