Dutch singer Joost Klein disqualified from Eurovision Song contest | The Express Tribune

Dutch artist Joost Klein has been removed from the Eurovision Song Contest following a backstage incident. 

The performer was sent home after a female member of the production crew made an allegation of intimidation to Swedish police. 

Contest organirers stated that “it would not be appropriate for him to continue in the contest” during the legal process. 

Dutch broadcaster Avrtotros criticised Klein’s exclusion as “disproportionate” and expressed shock at the decision, promising to address it later.

Klein, a top contender in this year’s competition with his song “Europapa,” dedicated the pro-Europe techno anthem to his late father, who passed away from cancer when he was 12. 

At 26, he had vowed to fulfill his father’s dream of performing at Eurovision.

Reports of his disqualification surfaced during Friday’s initial dress rehearsal for the televised grand final at the Malmö Arena. 

Klein’s stage setup was being arranged when a production manager instructed its removal. 

Subsequently, his performance was skipped without explanation, and Israel’s contestant, Eden Golan, replaced him in the running order.

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU), responsible for organising the event, later released a statement confirming they were “investigating an incident involving the Dutch artist” following a report.

The EBU has stated that Saturday’s grand final will now proceed with 25 acts instead of the intended 26. 

Dutch viewers can still vote, and the Dutch jury result from Friday’s rehearsal remains valid.