The final of this year’s Eurovision Song Contest takes place on Saturday, and final rehearsals have been going on in Sweden today ahead of the main event tomorrow.
However, it’s been reported Joost Klein, who is representing The Netherlands in the competition, has halted rehearsing “until further notice” over an “incident”.
The 26-year-old is under investigation by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU).
The Dutch singer missed the penultimate dress rehearsal on Friday, and it’s currently unclear whether or not he’ll be performing in Saturday’s grand final.
The EBU said in a statement: “We are currently investigating an incident that was reported to us involving the Dutch artist. He will not be rehearsing until further notice.
“We have no further comment at this time and will update in due course.”
Netherlands’ act Klein was banned from rehearsals
Getty
Amid protests in Sweden over Israel’s participation in the contest, Klein was vocal in his views during a news conference on Thursday.
As 10 acts from the night’s semi-final made it through to Saturday, including Israel’s entry Eden Golan, Klein cut in during her interview.
It came when Golan was asked by the Polish radio station Newsletter whether she believed her presence was posing a security risk to other participants and Swedish presenter Jovan Radomir told the 20-year-old she didn’t have to answer the question.
“Why not?” Klein loudly interjected before Golan stated: “I think we’re all here for one reason, and one reason only.
Dutch singer Joost Klein made it through to Saturday’s final
Getty
“And the EBU is taking all safety precautions to make this a safe and united place for everyone. And so, I think it’s safe for everyone or we wouldn’t be here.”
A round of applause followed her statement. No further details about Klein’s ban from rehearsals have been shared.
During last night’s semi-final, some fans made clear they had “switched off” during Golan’s performance.
It came after a day of pro-Palestine protests in Malmo, which was attended by activist Greta Thunberg.
Klein loudly cut in when Israel’s entry Golan was asked about security issues
BBC
The singer had also been advised to stay in her hotel room as thousands of demonstrators crowded the streets.
It follows weeks of Eurovision fans calling for Israel to be excluded from this year’s competition as Israel’s military campaign in Gaza continues.
However, Golan’s performance saw Israel securing a place in tomorrow’s final show.
