EUR-OH NO
Why was Joost Klein disqualified from Eurovision 2024? All about Netherlands’ Europapa act and rehearsal incident
See Eurovision's statement addressing the controversy
EUROVISION is finally here — but one act will not be performing in the iconic competition.
The Netherland's entry Joost Klein was axed from the show with just hours to go until the big night. Here's what we know.
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Who is Joost Klein?
Joost Klein, known as Joost, is a Dutch musician, rapper, singer and former YouTuber.
He is mostly a hip hop artist and his songs and performances often include influences of electronic music.
Joost is from the Netherlands and was due to perform as the country's Eurovision act — but was axed on the very day of the Eurovision grand final.
He was set to sing the song Europapa, which became his first song to top the Dutch Single Top 100.
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What happened to Joost Klein during Eurovision 2024 rehearsal?
It was reported that Joost was "pulled" from rehearsals on Friday May 10, 2024 — just one day before the live finals.
He was allegedly told he would not be preparing for the final despite there being just hours to go.
The news came after an "incident" was reported to Eurovision organisers.
In a statement to the PA news agency on May 10, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) said: "We are currently investigating an incident that was reported to us involving the Dutch artist.
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"He will not be rehearsing until further notice.
"We have no further comment at this time and will update in due course."
In the first dress rehearsal for the grand final, Joost appeared during the Flag Parade but didn't perform his song Europapa when the time came.
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Why was Joost Klein disqualified from Eurovision 2024?
With just hours to go the star was banned from the contest in Malmo, Sweden, after multiple complaints and bullying claims.
The flamboyant performer has now been told he will not be performing along with Eurovision acts from 25 other countries in tonight's final.
A statement from Eurovision shared hours before the competition said: "The Dutch artist Joost Klein will not be competing in the Grand Final of this year’s Eurovision Song Contest.
"Swedish police have investigated a complaint made by a female member of the production crew after an incident following his performance in Thursday night’s Semi Final.
"While the legal process takes its course, it would not be appropriate for him to continue in the Contest.
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"We would like to make it clear that, contrary to some media reports and social media speculation, this incident did not involve any other performer or delegation member.
"We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards inappropriate behaviour at our event and are committed to providing a safe and secure working environment for all staff at the Contest.
"In light of this, Joost Klein’s behaviour towards a team member is deemed in breach of Contest rules.
"The Grand Final of the 68th Eurovision Song Contest will now proceed with 25 participating songs."
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It is understood Joost has not been arrested but was quizzed by officers at the arena for more than 30 minutes on the night of May 10.
A Malmo Police spokeswoman did not name Joost but confirmed an investigation into a man's alleged violent threats at the Malmo Arena has been passed to the Public Prosecutions Office.
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