Eurovision 2024 embroiled in controversy after Dutch contestant axed
This year's Eurovision final will be remembered for its numerous political controversies. The Dutch contestant's exclusion sparked outrage among the audience, a reaction that did not go unnoticed by the contest's executive producer.
Looking back on the 68th Eurovision Song Contest, the most memorable moment might be the scandal that almost led to the Netherlands' withdrawal. The sudden disqualification of its contestant overshadowed the final, Joost Klein. The European Broadcasting Union justified this shocking decision as a "violation of contest rules" after Klein’s unexpected action towards a camera operator. It was clarified that no physical altercation occurred.
The Dutch delegation is awaiting a thorough explanation from the EBU. In the meantime, Eurovision's executive producer, Martin Österdahl, faced the wrath of Eurovision fans. The audience did not hesitate to express dissatisfaction with what happened on Saturday.
Eurovision head faces public embarrassment
A quintessential moment of the final is the announcement of the voting closure. When the presenters asked Österdahl for this confirmation, a loud chorus of whistles and boos filled the Malmö Arena. Despite the audience's hostile reaction, Österdahl maintained his composure, pretending to be unaffected by the uproar.
He encountered a similar reaction during the jury's voting results from the Netherlands, highlighting that the initially chosen YouTuber Nikkie de Jager stepped down from her role after disagreements with the broadcaster. The Swiss delegate, upon receiving 12 points, showed no delight.
