In a dramatic turn of events, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) announced just 30 minutes before the Grand Final jury show that The Netherlands’ performance would be suspended. This decision stems from an ongoing investigation into an incident involving Dutch artist Joost Klein.
The EBU stated that discussions are ongoing between the EBU and AVROTROS, the Dutch participating broadcaster, regarding the incident. While the investigation continues, Joost Klein will not perform during Dress Rehearsal 2, which is crucial as it is voted on by juries from the 37 participating countries. Instead, his performance from Semi Final 2 will be used.
The investigation into the incident with the Dutch artist in this year’s Eurovision Song Contest is still ongoing. Discussions are also taking place between the EBU and AVROTROS, the Dutch participating broadcaster.
European Broadcasting Union
Earlier in the day, during the Grand Final dress rehearsal, Joost Klein appeared for the Flag Parade but was conspicuously absent from the arena afterward, with his run-through being skipped over.
The exact nature of the incident involving Joost Klein remains undisclosed. However, the EBU’s decision has sparked discussions about the future of The Netherlands in this year’s Eurovision Song Contest. Despite this setback, the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest will proceed with the Grand Final as scheduled on Saturday night.
The suspension of The Netherlands’ performance has added an unexpected twist to the competition, leaving fans and participants alike on the edge of their seats as they await further developments.
UPDATE:
An incident occurred after last Thursday’s performance. Against clearly made agreements, Joost was filmed when he had just gotten off stage and had to rush to the greenroom. At that moment, Joost repeatedly indicated that he did not want to be filmed. This wasn’t respected.
This led to a threatening movement from Joost towards the camera. Joost did not touch the camera woman. This incident was reported, followed by an investigation by the EBU and police.
Yesterday and today we consulted extensively with the EBU and proposed several solutions. Nevertheless, the EBU has still decided to disqualify Joost Klein. AVROTROS finds the penalty very heavy and disproportionate. We stand for good manners -let there be no misunderstanding about that- but in our view, an exclusion order is not proportional to this incident.
We are very disappointed and upset for the millions of fans who were so excited for tonight. What Joost brought to the Netherlands and Europe shouldn’t have ended this way.
EBU
