Eurovision 2024: A rollercoaster of controversy and triumph

Eurovision 2024 was not just an annual music competition but a trending pageant of grand proportions, drawing in talents and audiences from every corner of the globe.

As the curtains rose on the grand finale, anticipation crackled in the air, mingling with the echoes of controversy that had surrounded the event from the beginning. But amidst the chaos and cacophony of this thrilling event, one thing remained certain: Eurovision 2024 would be unforgettable for many reasons and newsworthy for some time.

Controversy and disqualification

Just hours before the grand final, Dutch contestant Joost Klein was embroiled in controversy, stirring hot debate topics. The organisers disqualified him from the competition due to an "incident" involving a female production crew member.

The decision sent shockwaves through the Eurovision community, sparking debates and raising questions about the event's integrity. At a press conference the week before, Klein vocally backed a journalist who thought Israeli contestant Eden Golan's presence might endanger attending fans and fellow contenders.

Yet, amidst the turmoil, the show went on, proving that the controversy could not dim the spirit of Eurovision.

Israel's strong presence and loud protests

Several thousand protesters with Palestinian flags in Malmö demonstrated their views against Israel's participation in the competition, highlighting that organisers excluded Russia from the competition in 2022 for similar reasons.

Despite the tensions surrounding their presence, Israel delivered a powerful performance, defying expectations and showcasing the resilience of the human spirit with a strong performance by

Golan, despite being loudly booed during her dress rehearsal. She came fifth overall and second in the public with her performance of “Hurricane”.

As the cheers and boos mingled in the air, Eurovision once again became a platform for dialogue and debate, highlighting the complexities of the world we live in trending now.

Behind-the-scenes drama

Behind the glitter and glamour of Eurovision 2024 lay a world of drama and intrigue. From rumours of contestants pulling out to backstage clashes and last-minute changes, the competition was a melting pot of emotions and egos.

Backstage drama and rumours surrounding various contestants highlighted the diverse personalities and challenges faced by performers throughout the competition. The drama included Bambie Thug of Ireland failing to show up at the final dress rehearsal and Alessandra Mele of Norway withdrawing from her role as spokesperson over the “genocide” in the Middle East, as she called it.

Yet, amidst the drama, news, and chaos, solidarity and camaraderie emerged, reminding us that we are all part of the same human family, even amid competition.

Honourable and dishonourable mentions

This politically charged contest had some extraordinary likes and dislikes, especially regarding jury and public votes.

While the UK improved on last year's second-to-last place, Olly Alexander received the dreaded "null points" in the public vote with his performance of "Dizzy". He ended 18th out of 25 contenders with a poor song choice, muddy vocals, and sound issues to blame.

Martin Österdahl, The EBU boss and executive director, was booed whenever he appeared on stage, especially after Joost Klein’s disqualification. Despite his reputation as a Eurovision legend, complete with the catchphrase “When Martin licks his lips and says you’re good to go!” fans held him largely responsible for the drama that unfolded at this year’s iconic event.

From eccentric to truly bizarre

Eurovision did not come without its trademark eccentricity and bizarrely magnificent moments. There was a rap about Mother Teresa, a disco stripper, a guy with a blonde mullet setting his Y-fronts on fire after hatching from a blue egg, and a Croatian man draped in lace doilies called Baby Lasagne singing about milking cows.

With an eye-popping amount of near-nudity, boy band twins, and plenty of brilliant performances by skilful artists, Eurovision 2024 showcased debate on stage and outside the arena.

The grand finale: Switzerland's triumph

In a whirlwind of lights and music, Switzerland emerged as the unexpected victor of Eurovision 2024. With their electrifying performance of "The Code," Nemo captured the hearts of viewers worldwide, defying odds and expectations with this stunning performance.

Nemo follows in the footsteps of other transgender contestants, such as Austria’s Conchita Wurst in 2014 and Dana International from Israel’s performance in 1998.

As the euphoria of victory swept through the crowd, Switzerland's win served as a beacon of hope and unity in a competition fraught with political tensions and protests.

Eurovision's changing landscape

As Eurovision continues to evolve and expand its reach, so too does its impact on the world stage of culture and politics.

From its humble beginnings to its current status as a global phenomenon, Eurovision has transcended borders and boundaries, uniting people from all walks of life to celebrate music and culture.

United in talent and diversity

As the lights dimmed and the final notes faded into the night, Eurovision 2024 left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of viewers everywhere. From Switzerland's triumphant victory to the controversies and dramas that unfolded along the way, the competition was a rollercoaster ride of emotions and excitement.

Yet, amidst the chaos and clamour, one thing remained certain: Eurovision is more than just a song contest; it’s a showcase of talent and a celebration of unity. While it highlights our diversity, it’s an iconic event proving that music's power brings us together!