With less than four hours to go until the live grand final of the Eurovision Song Contest 2024, things are heating up in Malmö, Sweden at a rapid pace.
During the third dress rehearsal for the grand final, which is still underway at the Malmö Arena, the singer from France stopped his performance to make a statement. Slimane abruptly stopped the song and called for peace and unity.
The European Broadcasting Union has established rules prohibiting any political statements or lyrics. It is unclear whether this late date will disqualify Slimane from appearing on tonight's live show. His statement was not broadcast and was heard only in the arena.
Joost Klein from the Netherlands has already been disqualified, due to an incident behind the scenes.
Also this afternoon, Alessandra Mele, who played for Norway in the 2023 competition and was to be her country's representative giving their jury scores, withdrew from that assignment.
She released the following statement on Instagram: “Tonight I had to give Norway points in the Eurovision final. Although I am grateful to have been given the opportunity to do so, I have made the decision to retire. United By Music — Eurovision's motto — is why I make music. Unite people, bring them together. But right now those words are just empty words. There is a genocide going on and I am asking you all to open your eyes, open your hearts. Let love lead you to the truth. It's right in front of you. Free Palestine”.
Journalist Ingvild Helljesen will cover Norway's highlights during the live broadcast. As of press time, protesters on the streets of Malmö can be heard protesting Israel's involvement.
This is a developing story.
from our partners at https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/france-slimane-eurovision-2024-rehearsal-peace-statement-1235680931/