Eurovision Song Contest leaders disqualify Dutch contestant over backstage incident

Police in the Swedish city of Malmo on Saturday investigated allegations of inappropriate behavior that led to the exclusion of Dutch singer Joost Klein from the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest.

The 26-year-old Klein was excluded from the competition less than twelve hours before his appearance with his entry Europapa.

On Friday evening he did not show up for the dress rehearsal, although his props were set up on the stage at the Malmö Arena.

After a production manager ordered their removal, the starting lineup went to Israeli newcomer Eden Golan. The European Broadcast Union (EBU), which organizes the annual competition, said Klein was suspended because of an incident behind the scenes.

On Saturday the EBU confirmed he had been disqualified.

“Swedish police are investigating a complaint made by a female member of the production team following an incident following her performance in the semi-final on Thursday evening,” the EBU statement said.

“While the legal process takes its course, it would be inappropriate for him to continue to compete,” the EBU added.

On Thursday, at the post-semifinal press conference, Klein said he was unhappy about being placed next to Golan in the starting order.

The EBU said Klein’s disqualification had nothing to do with his stance on Golan.

“Contrary to the reports of some media and some speculations on social networks, no other artist or member of the delegation was involved in this incident (which led to his expulsion).”

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