Was the Dutchman Joost Klein prone to violence?
During a practice session for the Eurovision Song Contest's final round, an announcement stuns the crowd: Dutch singer Joost Klein won't be performing. At first, people heard about an unspecified incident related to the artist. Now, terrifying rumors are circulating.
Joost Klein and his song "Europapa" made the Netherlands a top contender in this year's competition in Malmö. Yet, there are more and more hints that the performer may have withdrawn from the event. Following his exclusion from the practice sessions for the ESC final, several details about his recent conduct have come to light. And one chilling speculation is spreading.
Klein, who is 26, was reported to have expressed his disapproval of Israel's presence in the contest several times. The singer is said to have declined a photo opportunity with Israeli competitor Eden Golan earlier in the week. At a press event on Thursday where the second semi-final winners were introduced, his disregard for Golan was obvious.
While Golan spoke, Klein covered himself with a Dutch flag. When a journalist questioned her on why she compromised other participants and the residents of Malmö by attending the event, and the moderator mentioned that she didn't need to answer the question, Klein said, "Why not?" When he was asked if he believed that one song could unite everyone, he replied, "I think that's a good question for the EBU." The European Broadcasting Union, or EBU, is the competition's organizer.
Was he planning a protest?
Contrary to popular belief, Klein did participate in the flag parade at the beginning of the first practice session but didn't perform as planned later. According to a story making the rounds, Klein meant to make a statement as part of his performance. But his exclusion from the show foiled his plans.
Another, more dramatic report by the Swedish publication "Aftonbladet" claims that Klein became physically aggressive towards a TV production staff member during the rehearsal. The article warns that it's "very serious."
For now, the European Broadcasting Union has issued only a vague statement. "We are currently investigating an occurrence reported to us involving the Dutch artist. He will not rehearse any further until further notice," they said.
There's no statement from the EBU or Klein yet. It's being said that he's already ended his Eurovision journey and is now out of touch. Another practice session is scheduled for Friday evening. For now, it's unclear whether Klein will return to the stage.
Klein isn't just a favorite at this year's Eurovision Song Contest; he's also an artist who gained recognition outside the event. In 2023, he and Otto, a comedian, Ski Aggu, a rapper, reached number one in the German charts with their song "Friesenjung."
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Source: www.ntv.de
