Jessica Gow/Getty Images
The fate of the Netherlands’ Eurovision entry hangs in the balance, after the Dutch representative failed to perform in Friday night’s jury final.
Eurovoix News reports that artist Joost Klein is under investigation for an off-stage incident and was prevented from performing on Friday while that matter was pending. Klein was not disqualified and a video of his performance from Thursday night’s semifinal was used instead.
The European Broadcasting Union released a statement saying:
“The investigation into the incident with the Dutch artist during this year’s Eurovision Song Contest is still ongoing. Discussions are also ongoing between the EBU and AVROTROS, the participating Dutch broadcaster.
“While the investigation continues, the EBU has decided that Joost Klein will not perform in the second dress rehearsal of the competition, which is voted on by the juries of the 37 participating countries.
“His performance from Semi-Final 2 will be used instead.”
Eurovoix News reports that Klein’s absence on Friday came at the last minute, with the stage crew already preparing the stage for the dress rehearsal ahead of the jury final, until they were told to move on to the next act.
Klein, whose song “Europapa” became one of the contest’s surprise hits, is under investigation following a physical altercation between him and a photographer, according to Swedish broadcaster SVT, which says police are investigating now on the case. The EBU hopes this work will be completed quickly so that a decision can be made on Klein’s participation in tonight’s Grand Final.
It’s yet another challenge for a contest already mired in controversy over Israel’s participation. As Israeli Eden Golan advanced through the semi-final on Thursday and is now the second favorite to win the competition, protests outside the venue attracted 12,000 people, demonstrating against Israel’s inclusion in the multinational event.
Gn entert
News Source : deadline.com
