Dutch actor Joost Klein leaves Eurovision after an “incident” with a production worker – The Irish Times

Dutch Eurovision actor Joost Klein will not appear in the competition’s final, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has confirmed.

This came after Klein missed two scheduled dress rehearsals on Friday while an investigation into an alleged incident was conducted.

“Swedish police have investigated a complaint made by a female member of the production team following an incident following his performance in the semi-finals on Thursday evening. While the legal process takes its course, it would not be appropriate for him to continue competing,” the EBU said.

“We would like to clarify that contrary to some media reports and social media speculation, no other artist or delegation member was involved in this incident.

“We have a zero-tolerance policy towards inappropriate behavior at our event and are committed to providing a safe working environment for all competition staff. Against this background, Joost Klein’s behavior towards a team member is considered a violation of the competition rules.

“The grand finale of the 68th Eurovision Song Contest will now continue with 25 participating songs.”

The 26-year-old rapper and singer qualified for the semi-finals on Thursday with his fast song Europapa, a tribute to his late parents.

Previously, a spokeswoman for the Swedish Police Authority said in a statement: “A man is suspected of making unlawful threats. The crime is said to have been committed on Thursday evening in the Malmö Arena.

“The man is being questioned by police but not arrested. The plaintiff is an employee of Eurovision.

“The police have taken all necessary investigative measures and interviewed the suspect, the complainant and the witnesses. The investigation was completed by the police.

“The case follows the normal legal procedure. The police have expedited the prosecution and the case will now be referred to the public prosecutor’s office within a few weeks.”

Police confirmed that the plaintiff was not a Eurovision act.

The grand final marks the end of this year’s Eurovision Song Contest, which was marked by controversy.

( Eurovision 2024 final: When will Ireland’s Bambie Thug sing, can they win and which countries are the hardest to beat? )

The televised final at the Malmö Arena in Sweden will see artists from the big five countries – Great Britain, France, Spain, Germany and Italy – join reigning champions Sweden and 20 qualified countries in a bid to win the title.

Irish contestant Bambie Thug is among those who have secured a place in the final, making her the first Irish finalist since 2018 following a vote for her performance of Doomsday Blue. – P.A