Eurovision drama as Netherlands breaks silence on why Joost Klein was disqualified from competition

The Netherlands' Songfestival page, which is responsible for sending acts to the Eurovision Song Contest, has finally spoken out about why Dutch act Joost Klein was disqualified and branded the decision as 'disproportionate'.

They disclosed that the disqualification came after an incident where Joost was filmed against his wishes, having "repeatedly indicated" he did not consent to it.

The statement from the Netherlands' Songfestival highlighted that even the Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS found the disqualification of Joost Klein "disproportionate", the Mirror reports.

Detailing the events leading up to the Eurovision officials barring Joost from Saturday's final, the statement elaborated: "An incident occurred after last Thursday's performance.

"Against clearly made agreements, Joost was filmed when he had just gotten off stage and had to rush to the greenroom."

"At that moment, Joost repeatedly indicated that he did not want to be filmed. This wasn't respected.

"This led to a threatening movement from Joost towards the camera. Joost did not touch the camera woman."

"This incident was reported, followed by an investigation by the EBU (European Broadcasting Union) and police.

"Yesterday and today we consulted extensively with the EBU and proposed several solutions. Nevertheless, the EBU has still decided to disqualify Joost Klein."

Bewilderment followed the banning of Joost Klein from the Eurovision Song Contest, with AVROTROS declaring the penalty unfair and disproportionate.

The Dutch broadcaster said: "AVROTROS finds the penalty very heavy and disproportionate.

"We stand for good manners let there be no misunderstanding about that but in our view, an exclusion order is not proportional to this incident."

Falling on behalf of the legion of fans, the statement further added: "We are very disappointed and upset for the millions of fans who were so excited for tonight.

"What Joost brought to the Netherlands and Europe shouldn't have ended this way."

After whispers of a backstage spat last Friday, Joost was removed from the contest. The European Broadcasting Union later released a statement announcing the artist was under investigation following an unspecified incident.

The announcement stated: "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."

They further emphasised: "While the legal process takes its course, it would not be appropriate for him to continue in the Contest.

"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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