The Netherlands’ Eurovision Entry and Controversies Surrounding It

Joost Klein Investigated for Incident, Performance in Doubt

Image Credit: Jessica Gow/Getty Images

Failure to Perform in Jury Final

The fate of The Netherlands’ Eurovision entry hangs in the balance after the Dutch representative failed
to perform in Friday evening’s jury final.

Investigation and Consequences

Eurovoix News reports that artist Joost Klein, the representative, is currently under investigation for an
incident that occurred off-stage. As a result, Klein was prevented from performing on Friday while the
investigation was ongoing. Despite this, Klein has not been disqualified, and a video of his performance from
Thursday evening’s semi-final was used instead.

European Broadcasting Union’s Statement

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) released a statement regarding the ongoing investigation. They have
conveyed that discussions are taking place between the EBU and AVROTROS, the Dutch participating broadcaster,
in addition to the investigation into the incident with the Dutch artist during this year’s Eurovision Song
Contest.

Temporary Performance Replacement

As the investigation continues, the EBU made the decision that Joost Klein will not perform during Dress
Rehearsal 2 of the competition, which is voted on by juries from the 37 participating countries. Instead, his
performance from Semi-Final 2 will be utilized for this purpose.

Unforeseen Absence and Police Investigation

Eurovoix News reveals that Klein’s absence on Friday occurred at the last minute, with the stage crew already
beginning to set up the staging for the dress rehearsal prior to the jury final. However, they were immediately
instructed to move on to the next act instead. Klein is currently being investigated following a physical
altercation with a photographer, as reported by Swedish broadcaster SVT. Police are involved in the ongoing
investigation. The EBU is hoping for a speedy resolution to allow for a decision regarding Klein’s participation
in tonight’s Grand Final.

Controversies Surrounding Eurovision Song Contest

The Eurovision Song Contest is already grappling with additional controversies, the primary one being Israel’s
participation. Despite the Israeli entry, Eden Golan, qualifying for the semi-final on Thursday and
establishing herself as the second favorite to win the competition, protests against Israel’s inclusion in the
event were significant. Around 12,000 people gathered outside the venue to demonstrate and voice their
opposition.