What would have been London's biggest screening party for the finals of this year's iteration of the famed Eurovision Song Contest has been canceled in light of Israel's participation, according to statements released by the hosting venue Rio Cinema and organizer Eurovision Party London.
Behind the Decision to Cancel the Eurovision Party London
In Rio Cinema's statement that was shared on X (formerly Twitter), it said that the decision to cancel the event was made following conversations with its organizers, writing, "We have collectively decided not to screen the Grand Final of the Eurovision Song Contest this year while Israel remains in the competition."
"The Eurovision Party London has been a beloved partner of The Rio Cinema for many years, and we will continue to work with them in the future," it continued. "We firmly believe that the Eurovision Song Contest has the power to bring people together across the world, and when its core values of inclusivity, equality, and universality are upheld, it can be a genuine force for good."
Rio Cinema also said that it hopes all nations involved can rally under the contest's slogan once more in the future, as "United by Music." In the meantime, the venue said it will continue in organizing fundraising events like "Doctors Without Borders and Medical Aid for Palestine."
In response, Eurovision Party London organizers also released their statement, writing, "Following discussion with the Rio Cinema and its board of trustees, it is with a heavy heart that we have collectively decided not to screen the Grand Final of the Eurovision Song Contest this year."
"Following discussion with the Rio Cinema and its board of trustees," the organizers continued, "it is with a heavy heart that we have collectively decided not to screen the Grand Final of the Eurovision Song Contest this year."
Similarly, the organizers ended their statement as Rio Cinema had, expressing their hopes for the nations to once again be "United by Music."
This recent decision happened after an open letter supporting Israel's participation in the event, which was signed by 400 celebrities and industry exclusives alike, was publicized.
Some notable names who acted as signatories in the letter include actor and singer Boy George, former CEO and Chairman of Universal Music Publishing David Renzer, actress Sharon Osbourne, songwriter Diane Warren, and actress Mayim Bialik, among others.
Despite the screening party cancellation, the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest finals will still take place on May 9, 11, and 13 at Sweden's Malmö Arena.
