The BBC reports that a man was reported for making “unlawful threats” at Malmo Arena, in Malmo, Sweden, where the Eurovision competition is being held. “The police have taken all essential investigative measures and questioned the suspect, plaintiff and witnesses,” a police spokesperson said.
“The investigation has been completed by the police… and the case will now go to the prosecutor within a few weeks.”
“This isn’t the first time a Eurovision competitor has been disqualified, but it is the first time the ineligibility has been announced this close to the end. Given the tight timing, another competitor will not be able to take Klein’s place, the BBC reports. However, Dutch viewers will still be allowed to vote, and the Dutch jury decision (which is made during an earlier dress rehearsal as opposed to the final performance) will still be counted.
Despite the eleventh-hour bobble, Eurovision officials seem resolute in their decision. “We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards inappropriate behavior at our event and are committed to providing a safe and secure working environment for all staff at the Contest,” they said via statement. “In light of this, Joost Klein’s behavior towards a team member is deemed in breach of Contest rules.”
And, so, the show will go on. The Grand Finale of the Eurovision Song Contest will be broadcast live on Saturday, May 11 on BBC One and BBC iPlayer for viewers in those markets. In the U.S., viewers can watch the finale on Peacock beginning at Peacock 3 p.m. ET. According to Belfast Live, with Klein out of the running, bookies favor Croatian singer Baby Lasagna (real name: Marko Purišić), who is now set to perform his song, “Rim Tim Tagi Dim,” in the number 23 slot.