A stunning turn of events unfolded just hours before the final of the Eurovision Song Contest as Netherlands' contestant Joost Klein was abruptly removed from the competition by organizers. The Dutch public broadcaster, AVROTROS, expressed its anger and disbelief over the expulsion, which was prompted by a backstage altercation that is currently under investigation by Swedish police.

According to the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), the Swedish police are looking into a complaint made by a female member of the production crew regarding Joost Klein. In light of the ongoing legal process, the EBU determined it would be inappropriate for him to continue participating in the contest.

Speculation had been growing regarding the nature of the incident, with rumors suggesting a connection to Israel's delegation. However, organizers clarified that the incident did not involve any other performer or delegation member. It remained uncertain whether Klein was still present in Malmo, Sweden, on the day of the competition.

The EBU further announced that Klein would not receive any points from national juries or Eurovision viewers, who play a crucial role in selecting the competition's winner. Consequently, the Netherlands would not appear on the contest scoreboard. However, Dutch viewers would still be eligible to vote as viewers from Eurovision member countries are prohibited from voting for their own nation's act.

This unprecedented last-minute disqualification has sent shockwaves through the 68-year history of Eurovision. While countries have boycotted or faced expulsion from the event in the past, a situation of this nature has never occurred. Russian expulsion in 2022, following its invasion of Ukraine, serves as a recent example.

AVROTROS, the Dutch public broadcaster, expressed its shock and disappointment at the decision. The broadcaster clarified that Klein was filmed without his consent after the semifinal performance, and in response, made a "threatening movement" towards the camera. AVROTROS emphasized that Klein did not make any physical contact with the camera or the camerawoman. They described the expulsion as a "very heavy and disproportionate" punishment.

Klein, a 26-year-old Dutch singer and rapper, had garnered significant attention and support, with his song "Europapa" being a favorite amongst bookmakers and fans. The upbeat Euro-techno track serves as a tribute to Klein's late parents, who tragically passed away during his childhood.

Followers of the competition also voiced their disappointment at the disqualification. British fan Dave Adams, who attended the event dressed as Klein, expressed feeling "a bit gutted" and described the situation as depressing. Nonetheless, he hoped for a worthy winner to be crowned in the contest.

The Eurovision Song Contest, known for pitting nations against each other for pop music glory, has already become marked by controversy surrounding the inclusion of Israel. Protests from Palestinians and their supporters, citing Israel's actions during the war in Gaza, have led to significant dissent.

As the investigation into the backstage altercation continues, fans and contestants alike are left to reflect on a turn of events that has significantly impacted this year's Eurovision competition.