Eurovision: Confusion over fate of Dutch star Joost Klein

The Dutch Eurovision contestant won’t carry out in Friday night’s gown rehearsal whereas organisers examine a backstage incident.

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which organises the occasion, has not specified what the “incident” involving Joost Klein was.

The night gown rehearsal is watched by juries round Europe to find out their scores for the grand remaining.

As an alternative, jurors shall be proven a taped efficiency from earlier within the week.

Klein’s music Europapa is taken into account one of many front-runners at this yr’s contest.

It’s devoted to his dad and mom, who died when he was a baby. The performer had promised them that he would sooner or later compete at Eurovision.

His suspension grew to become clear on Friday afternoon, in the course of the first gown rehearsal for Saturday’s televised grand remaining.

Klein’s props had been being arrange on stage contained in the Malmö Enviornment when a manufacturing supervisor indicated they need to be eliminated.

His music was then skipped with out rationalization, and Israel’s entrant Eden Golan, who was subsequent within the working order, took his place.

The EBU later issued a press release saying they had been “investigating an incident that was reported to us involving the Dutch artist”.

The assertion was up to date shortly after 20:30 CET (19:30 BST), half an hour earlier than the jury rehearsal started.

“The investigation into the incident with the Dutch artist on this yr’s Eurovision Music Contest remains to be ongoing,” it mentioned.

“Discussions are additionally happening between the EBU and AVROTROS, the Dutch taking part broadcaster.

“Whereas the investigation continues the EBU has determined that Joost Klein won’t carry out throughout Costume Rehearsal 2 of the competitors which is voted on by juries within the 37 taking part international locations.

“His efficiency from Semi Closing 2 shall be used as a substitute.”

“We have now no additional remark at the moment and can replace in the end.”