LAST UPDATE | 19 mins ago
IRISH EUROVISION CONTESTANT Bambie Thug did not make it to their performance at a dress rehearsal known as the Family Show ahead of tonight’s final in Malmo, Sweden.
The Irish singer also did not take part in the flag parade ahead of the rehearsal this afternoon, telling their fanbase, or “coven”, on Instagram that there was “a situation” that needed “urgent attention” from the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which came up while they were waiting to got on stage.
Without giving any further details, the Instagram post said: “The EBU have taken this matter seriously and we have been in discussion about what action needs to be taken.”
Bambie Thug apologised to those fans who had come to see their performance at the dress rehearsal.
“I hope to see you on the stage tonight,” the post read, referring to the final that kicks off at 8pm this evening.
Two other contestant, Greece’s Marina Satti and Switzerland’s Nemo, also failed to show up for the flag event this afternoon.
Bambie Thug told RTÉ that they had raised an issue with Israeli TV commentary about their performance at the contest, although it is unclear if this is the issue referred to in the Instagram post.
“There’s a lot more anger and a lot more drive in me now,” Bambie Thug said in an interview with RTÉ News, adding that in their opinion Israel should not be allowed to be allowed to take further part in the contest.
This year’s Eurovision has been beset by controversy, mostly due to the presence of Israel at the competition as it continues its seven-month war on the Gaza Strip in Palestine.
Dutch artist Joost Klein was kicked out of the competition today amid a police investigation into an unspecified incident.
There was booing in the arena yesterday when it was announced he would not be performing. Hundreds of Dutch fans are in Malmö for the Eurovision.
The final of the 68th song contest will now proceed tonight with 25 participating acts, including Ireland’s Bambie Thug, instead of 26.
