This year’s Eurovision Song Contest was fraught with tension and drama, with raucous protests attempting to overshadow the typical glitz and fanfare of the event.
The Malmo, Sweden final bore witness to controversy infused days leading up to it, as fans voiced their outrage at Israels participation amidst heated disputes among contestants. The situation took a turn for the worse when Dutch act Joost Klein was disqualified due to a backstage incident and followed by Ireland skipping the parade rehearsal due to an undisclosed issue.
Whispers of a quarrel brewed between Joost and Israeli singer Eden Golan during the semi-final after he threw into question her representation in Eurovision in view of the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict in Gaza. Critics have heavily scrutinised the 20 year old singer, while security concerns for her burst onto the scene.
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A palpable sense of discord permeated the very air of the night with massive protests ringing out beyond the venue boundaries while rounds of booing heralded Eden Golan’s appearance. However, the various contestants sought to counter the negative vibe by urging peace and unity in their stage appearances, boldly pushing back against calls for the contest to steer clear of political references, reports the Mirror.
(Image: Getty Images)
Some were unambiguous with their messages, whilst others chose more subtle means.
The newly crowned victor, Nemo, used his winning moment to agitate peace through his victory speech post bagging the top spot with his entrant song The Code. His poignant statement resonated: “I hope this contest can live up to its promise and continue to stand for peace and dignity for every person in this world.”
(Image: Getty Images)
The seventh act of the night, Lithuania’s Silvester Belt, wrapped up his tune Luktelk with a heartfelt message, telling the crowd he wanted to “spread love to the world.”
Irish singer Bambie Thug, fresh from hurling bombshell accusations at Israeli broadcaster Kan, belted out that “love will always triumph hate” after their performance. Eagle-eyed supporters also spotted the Palestinian flag colours adorning their nails.
(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Portugal’s songbird Iolanda chimed in with “peace will prevail” post her Grito performance, while her fans proudly highlighted her Palestinian Keffiyeh-inspired nail art on social media.
Rounding off before Austria’s closing number, France’s Slimane delivered his stirring Mon Amour, pausing to echo a call for unity through music for love and peace. This sentiment follows his poignant pause during Saturday’s dress run, where he shared a kindred spirit’s plea.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
