Joost Klein, the Netherlands' representative in the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest, is being investigated by the European Broadcasting Union over an “incident”. No details have been released yet, but Klein has been suspended from rehearsals. It is not known if he will be able to continue in the race.
The EBU's statement did not shed much light on the situation: “We are investigating an incident reported to us regarding the Dutch artist. He will not rehearse until further notice. We have no further comment at this time and will update in due course.”
The second dress rehearsal for the grand final is now underway at Sweden's Malmö Arena. The Netherlands is in fifth place. Nothing will look out of place in the space. SVT, the Swedish broadcaster, will use Klein's rehearsal from Semi-Final 2, unless the incident clears up in the next few minutes. The EBU is in talks with Dutch broadcaster Avrotros.
The broadcast begins with the traditional “parade of flags”, with the artists taking the stage in order of performance. Klein appeared at the ceremony at the first dress rehearsal on Friday afternoon (May 10). When it was time to perform, his props were being set up on stage when they were suddenly taken away. He was absent from the afternoon rehearsal flag ceremony. The announcer announced “Netherlands,” but no one was seen displaying the nation's flag.
The dress rehearsal underway is important. the national juries are watching and will vote tonight.
Although details of the incident have not been released, Advertising sign they caught speculation that there was a behind-the-scenes episode between Klein and someone working on the show — but I can't confirm anything. There was tension between Klein and Israel's singer Eden Golan at a press conference Thursday (May 9) night for the 10 countries that advanced to Semi-Final 2. Golan was asked if her presence at the competition presented a security risk.
The moderator told Golan he didn't have to answer, and Klein yelled, “Why not?” Golan then volunteered that the EBU was committed to a safe and inclusive environment for all. The assembled press broke into applause.
Israel follows the Netherlands in the series, so it is possible that the two artists were in close proximity during the afternoon rehearsal.
This is a developing story.
from our partners at https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/netherlands-joost-klein-eurovision-2024-1235680607/