Olly Alexander under pressure to withdraw from representing UK at Eurovision
More than 450 queer artists, individuals and organisations have called on Olly Alexander to boycott this year’s Eurovision competition.
Olly Alexander has been selected to represent the UK in the contest that will be held on Sweden.
Although Eurovision prides itself on being a politics-free zone, the conflict in Gaza is at the forefront of everyone’s mind.
The open letter, posted on Instagram by Queers for Palestine, read: “We share the vision of queer joy and abundance you’ve offered through your music, and share your belief in collective liberation for all. In this spirit, we ask you to heed the Palestinian call to withdraw from Eurovision … There can be no party with a state committing apartheid and genocide. At a time when accountability is so urgently needed, Israel’s inclusion in Eurovision would enable and cover up its war crimes and crimes against humanity.”
It’s been reported that Eurovision Party London – London’s biggest Eurovision screening party – announced it was cancelling its 2024 edition over Israel’s participation.
It’s not only Olly Alexander that is coming under pressure to withdraw – artists in both Sweden and Finland have also demanded that their representatives boycott Eurovision.
What song will Olly Alexander sing at Eurovision?
The track is called Dizzy, it’s heavy on production, upbeat, and definitely has potential.