Ireland's Eurovision entry Bambie Thug gives update on issue that saw them miss rehearsal

Bambie Thug of Ireland performs the song Doomsday Blue during the dress rehearsal for the first semifinal at the Eurovision Song Contest in Malmo, Sweden
Bambie Thug of Ireland performs the song Doomsday Blue during the dress rehearsal for the first semifinal at the Eurovision Song Contest in Malmo, Sweden -Credit:AP


Bambie Thug, the Irish Eurovision entry, has confirmed the "issue" that saw them miss the final rehearsal ahead of the Grand Final which starts at 8pm tonight. Bambie Thug has said that they raised “multiple complaints” with Eurovision Song Contest organisers about a commentator from the Israeli broadcaster delegation following them missing rehearsals on Saturday ahead of the final.

They wrote in an Instagram story tonight, May 11: “I have raised multiple complaints to the EBU ( European Broadcasting Union) regarding instances I have experienced this week. Earlier today they confirmed to my delegation in front of others that KAN’s commentator had broken the rules of conduct during the Eurovision semi-final.

“I have been patiently waiting to hear what action is set to be taken by the EBU following this rule break. I have since seen a statement by EBU director general Noel Curran which contradicts this earlier confirmation. I am still waiting for an official update from the EBU.”

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Earlier today they said they missed their dress rehearsal following a “situation” which required “urgent attention” from the European Broadcasting Union (EBU).

On their Instagram story, they wrote: “Dear Coven, There was a situation while we were waiting to go to stage for the flag parade rehearsal which I felt needed urgent attention from the EBU – the EBU have taken this matter seriously and we have been in a discussion about what action needs to be taken.

“This means I have missed my dress rehearsal – I am really sorry to the fans that have come to see me. I hope to see you on the stage tonight.”

A spokesperson for the European Broadcasting Union said: “Bambie Thug did not perform in dress rehearsal three and the footage of their performance in dress rehearsal two was used in its place.

“They missed the dress rehearsal due to a situation that is currently being discussed with the EBU and song contest organisers. We hope that this will be resolved shortly and Bambie Thug will appear in the grand final show as planned.”

Israel’s Eurovision Song Contest delegation has responded to Ireland’s Bambie Thug’s allegations about a member of their commentary team.

When asked about Bambie’s post on Instagram, a spokesperson for the Israeli broadcaster Kan told the PA news agency: “We wish everyone the best of luck tonight.”

The Eurovision Song Contest Grand Final airs on BBC One at 8pm.