Graham Norton has reassured viewers they will see “the Eurovision they know and love” on Saturday night when millions tune in to the final.
But the inclusion of Israel’s nominee, 20-year-old Eden Golan, has drawn criticism. People are protesting against Israel’s participation because of their involvement in the war against Hamas.
Speaking ITV’s Good Morning Britain (GMB) Graham Norton said “In the arena last night, I was there, and it was very much business as usual. You know, the crowds were going wild, songs… big reactions, it felt very much like any other Eurovision once you were in that arena.”
Protests in Malmo
Pro-Palestine protests were held in Malmo ahead of the semi-final last night. Over 10,000 people marched from Stortorget to Molleplatsen in support of the people of Gaza and to condemn Israel’s participation in Eurovision.
Massive rally in #Malmo happening right now, protesting Israel's participation in @Eurovision.
Still 2 more days to go!#BoycottEurovision2024 🇵🇸 pic.twitter.com/f7QfraVXPg— Brighton PSC (@BrightonPSC) May 9, 2024
They took place at the same time as Eden Golan’s final dress rehearsal. Extra security’s been drafted in from neighbouring countries Denmark and Norway.
A Downing Street spokeswoman said: “The Prime Minister thinks that these protests are wrong and some of the scenes we’ve seen have been outrageous.”
During Tuesday’s rehearsal audience members booed Golan and shouted “Free Palestine”. One person in the auditorium had a Palestinian flag removed from them.
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) – which says it’s an apolitical organisation – says only flags that represent countries taking part, and the rainbow flag, can be brought to the event.
Comparison to Russia’s ban
Comparisons have been made to Russia’s treatment, who has been banned from the contest for the last two years.
The EBU said Russia’s removal was because repeatedly using its broadcasting channels as a tool for political propaganda. But that “Israeli public broadcaster Kan met all the competition rules for this year.
GMB asked Mr Norton if the EBU had been put in an “impossible position”. He said: “They have, but I think what’s interesting is the EBU made that decision to include Israel, but now it’s the viewers have decided they’re going to be in the grand final. The decision has kind of been taken away from the EBU.”
Looking ahead to the final
Sweden are hosting the competition after their Loreen won in Liverpool last year. It’s also 50 years since ABBA won with their hit song ‘Waterloo’.
The UK’s entry, Olly Alexander, previously the lead singer of Years And Years, is performing his song ‘Dizzy’ at the final on Saturday.
The Eurovision Song Contest final is on BBC One and BBC iPlayer from 8PM on Saturday night.
