The Eurovision Song Contest 2024 in Malmö, Sweden, was marred by an unprecedented event just hours before the grand finale: the disqualification of Dutch contestant Joost Klein. This sudden exclusion sent shockwaves through the Eurovision community and left fans worldwide searching for answers. Why did the Netherlands get disqualified from Eurovision at the last minute, and what exactly transpired backstage? This article delves into the details of the incident, the allegations, and the reactions, providing a comprehensive understanding of this controversial decision.
The Backstage Incident and Allegations
The drama unfolded following the semi-final on Thursday, May 9th. Reports emerged of an “incident” involving Joost Klein that was being investigated by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), the organizer of Eurovision. Details were initially scarce, leading to widespread speculation. However, it was soon confirmed that a female member of the production crew had made an allegation of intimidation to the Swedish police.
Image: Dutch Eurovision contestant Joost Klein during a rehearsal, now disqualified from the Grand Final due to a backstage incident.
Swedish police swiftly launched an investigation, questioning Klein, the complainant, and witnesses. The police investigation focused on “unlawful threats” allegedly made by Klein at the Malmö Arena. While the specifics of the alleged threats were not publicly disclosed, the EBU emphasized their “zero-tolerance policy towards inappropriate behavior” and commitment to a safe working environment.
Avrotros’s Perspective: Filming Dispute and “Threatening Movement”
Dutch broadcaster Avrotros, responsible for the Netherlands’ Eurovision participation, expressed shock and disappointment at the “disproportionate” disqualification. They presented a different account of the events leading to the incident. According to Avrotros, the situation arose from a disagreement over filming.
Avrotros stated that “against clearly made agreements, Joost was filmed when he had just gotten off stage and had to rush to the greenroom.” They claimed that Klein had “repeatedly indicated that he did not want to be filmed” in this situation, but his wishes were not respected. This disregard for his request reportedly led to what Avrotros described as a “threatening movement from Joost towards the camera.”
Image: Official statement from Dutch broadcaster Avrotros on Instagram, expressing shock at Joost Klein’s Eurovision disqualification and detailing their version of events.
Crucially, Avrotros insisted that “Joost did not touch the camerawoman.” They stated they had “consulted extensively” with the EBU and even “proposed several solutions” to resolve the situation, but ultimately, the EBU decided to disqualify Klein from the Grand Final. Avrotros deemed this decision excessive, especially considering their account of the incident.
The EBU’s Stance: Breach of Contest Rules
Despite Avrotros’s protests, the EBU stood firm on its decision to disqualify Joost Klein. They cited a “breach of Contest rules” due to Klein’s behavior towards a team member. The EBU’s statement highlighted their commitment to providing a safe and secure working environment for everyone involved in the Eurovision Song Contest. They asserted that, “it would not be appropriate” for Klein to participate while the legal process was ongoing, even though the police investigation was completed and the case was passed to the prosecutor.
This firm stance underscores the EBU’s focus on maintaining a professional and respectful atmosphere at Eurovision, particularly in light of increasing scrutiny and the event’s large international platform. The “zero-tolerance policy” suggests a desire to set a clear precedent regarding acceptable conduct within the Eurovision environment.
Context and Related Eurovision 2024 Tensions
While the incident involving Joost Klein was presented as isolated, it occurred within a broader context of heightened tensions and controversies surrounding Eurovision 2024 in Malmö. Notably, there were significant protests and public debate regarding the participation of Israel in the contest, given the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict.
Earlier in the week, during a press conference, Klein had engaged in a notable exchange with Israel’s contestant, Eden Golan. When Golan was asked if her presence brought “risk and danger for other participants and public,” Klein interjected with “Why not?” after the moderator attempted to prevent Golan from answering. While organizers stated the incident with Klein was unrelated to any other performers or delegations, this press conference exchange illustrated the underlying tensions present at the event.
Image: Joost Klein of the Netherlands and Eden Golan of Israel at a Eurovision press conference in Malmö, amidst heightened tensions surrounding the 2024 contest.
Furthermore, Ireland’s entrant, Bambie Thug, also experienced a “situation” that required “urgent attention” from the EBU, causing them to miss a dress rehearsal. Additionally, Norway’s jury spokesperson withdrew, citing the “inflamed situation” in Malmö. These separate events, while not directly linked to Klein’s disqualification, collectively paint a picture of a particularly fraught Eurovision week.
Eurovision Without the Netherlands: Immediate Aftermath
Joost Klein’s disqualification meant that the Eurovision Grand Final proceeded with only 25 participating acts instead of the planned 26. His song “Europapa,” a favorite among fans and bookmakers, was removed from the running order. Despite the controversy, Dutch viewers were still allowed to vote in the contest, and the Dutch jury’s results remained valid. However, no replacement act was permitted, highlighting the unprecedented nature of a disqualification so close to the final.
Image: International media gathered outside Joost Klein’s hotel in Malmö, Sweden, following his disqualification from the Eurovision Song Contest.
The disqualification of the Netherlands just hours before the Eurovision Grand Final is an extremely rare and significant event in the contest’s history. While contestants and songs have been disqualified in the past, it has typically occurred much earlier in the process. This last-minute exclusion underscores the seriousness with which the EBU treated the allegations and their commitment to upholding contest rules and ensuring a safe environment, even amidst considerable disruption and controversy. The full ramifications of this event for both Eurovision and Joost Klein’s career are yet to be seen, but it undoubtedly marks a dramatic chapter in Eurovision history.
