Controversy Strikes Eurovision: Dutch Artist Disqualified Amid Backstage Incident

Joost Klein, the Dutch artist, has been disqualified from participating in the Eurovision Song Contest following a backstage incident involving an allegation of intimidation made by a female member of the production crew to Swedish police. The contest organizers, in a statement, expressed that it would be inappropriate for Klein to continue in the contest while the legal process unfolds. Klein, who had been considered one of the favorites with his song “Europapa,” dedicated to his late father, had promised to make it to the Eurovision stage.

In a separate incident, Ireland’s entrant Bambie Thug missed the dress rehearsal but assured fans of being on stage for the show. Thug cited a situation that required urgent attention from the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) prior to the flag parade rehearsal but made no reference to Klein’s disqualification, indicating no connection between the two incidents.

Norwegian media reported that their jury spokesman, Allesandra Mele, withdrew from her role, citing the “inflamed situation” in Malmo, where the contest was being held. Meanwhile, Dutch broadcaster Avrtotros criticized Klein’s disqualification as disproportionate and expressed shock at the decision.

The disqualification emerged during the first dress rehearsal for Saturday’s televised grand final, leading to Klein’s exclusion from the event. The EBU, affirming a zero-tolerance policy towards inappropriate behavior, deemed Klein’s actions towards a team member as breaching contest rules.

While contestants have been disqualified from Eurovision in the past, it is unprecedented for an artist to lose their place so close to the final. The incident reportedly involved Klein and a member of the television production team, with organizers clarifying that it did not involve any other performers or delegation members.

Despite the disqualification, the Eurovision grand final proceeded with 25 acts instead of the planned 26. Dutch viewers were still permitted to vote, and the Dutch jury result, decided during Friday’s second dress rehearsal, remained valid. Due to logistical and regulatory constraints, it was not feasible to replace Klein with another act at such short notice.