Netherlands' Joost Klein Barred From Performing on Final Jury Rehearsals for Eurovision

Eurovision 2024 has become increasingly controversial as pro-Palestine supporters are protesting as an Israeli contestant advances in the competition.

Some Eurovision fans have expressed their frustration and disappointment with the organizers after The Netherlands' candidate Joost Klein was suspended from rehearsing until his final performance in the Grand Finals on May 11.

"We are investigating an incident reported to us concerning the Dutch artist. He will not be rehearsing until further notice. We have no further comment at this time and will update in due course," the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) said in a statement, as quoted by Billboard.

BBC reported that Klein would not perform at the final evening dress rehearsal. Notably, rehearsal was crucial for Klein as the European juries would watch the performance to determine their scores for the grand finals.

Instead of Klein's suspended performance, the organizers will show a taped performance of his earlier this week. Klein's song, "Europapa," has been considered one of the front-runners for Eurovision 2024.

Billboard reported tension between Klein and Israel's finalist Eden Golan during the press conference.

Sky News reported, one of the press corps asked Golan if she had "ever thought that by being here," she brought "risk and danger for other participants."

The moderator of the press conference interjected and told Golan that she could opt not to answer the question. Klein shouted, "Why not?" taking Golan aback.

However, Golan, who has received death threats ever since being announced to compete, answered, "I think we're all here for one reason, and one reason only. And the EBU is taking all safety precautions to make this a safe and united place for everyone, so I think it's safe for everyone," she said, prompting applause from the press.

The Independent has reported that over 10,000 pro-Palestine protesters have shown up in Malmo, Sweden, the host city of Eurovision 2024, to protest Israel's inclusion in this year's events amid the country's war against Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

Tags

Eurovision, Eurovision Song Contest