Martin Österdahl will step down as executive supervisor of the Eurovision Song Contest this summer. The 51-year-old Swede was the face of the singing competition for years, but disappeared into the background last year after criticism of the Song Contest in Malmö.
Song Contest organizers European Broadcasting Union (EBU) have announced Österdahl’s departure.
After the edition in Malmö last year, Österdahl disappeared into the background after he came under fire. Several delegations complained about an unsafe atmosphere behind the scenes. He was also booed during rehearsals and live broadcasts, because many people held him responsible for the disqualification of Joost Klein as executive supervisor of the festival.
The EBU then created the new position of Song Contest director. The Briton Martin Green, who was supposed to supervise Österdahl’s work, holds that position.
“With my involvement with Eurovision spanning almost 20 years, I consider it the honour of my professional life to have led the world’s largest music event,” Österdahl said in a statement.
“It has grown into a global superbrand that brings joy to more people than ever before. I am deeply grateful to the entire Eurovision community for their passion and support.”
Green thanks Österdahl for his commitment. “His steady leadership during some of the most challenging and innovative years in Eurovision’s history has raised the bar of excellence. We thank him for his great work and lasting impact, and wish him every success.” Source: nu.nl
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