Greece’s Eurovision Song Contest team sparked controversy on Friday after being filmed yawning and appearing to take a nap while Israeli contestants gave speeches.
The incident occurred during a panel interview in Malmö, Sweden, where Eurovision finalists gathered before the grand finale on May 11th. Marina Satti from Greece photographed As Israel’s Eden Golan spoke, he visibly yawned and curled up with his head resting on the table. The footage went viral, sparking criticism and debate among Eurovision fans, with social media observers, including many X (formerly Twitter) users, slamming Satti’s actions. (Related: Republican lawmaker wants to send anti-Semitism monitors to campuses and pull funding from schools that don’t comply)
This is a singer representing Greece. @Eurovision , @marina_satti It’s a shame for Greece and for all decent people. #Greek language Man. Pretending to fall asleep while an Israeli contestant speaks is not only a sign of bad upbringing and pure Jew hatred, but also a stain on Greeks… pic.twitter.com/FSZQylPPKg
— Miha Schwarzenberg (@mihaschw) May 10, 2024
While 20-year-old Eden Golan was being interviewed, 38-year-old Marina Satti decided to act like a petulant child.
embarrassing and immature pic.twitter.com/lWDW0QjRg2
— Nioh Berg ♛ ✡︎ (@NiohBerg) May 10, 2024
Greek singer Marina Satti decided to do so while Eden Golan was being interviewed.
Full of jealousy and completely pathetic.
— Vivid.🇮🇱 (@VividProess) May 10, 2024
However, not all feedback was negative. Some fans defended Satti and praised her relaxed attitude.
These past 24 hours have made me more proud than ever of Marina Satti. She just doesn’t care and she’s pissed off some of the worst people on this planet.
I love her. Give her more of the love she deserves. https://t.co/HTSdlmATYG
— Salo ֎ (@WWESARO) May 10, 2024
I love Marina Satti because she is so strong and not afraid to express her beliefs. Her family is suffering in the war in Sudan, where Israeli forces are currently fighting against her. They fight her because she wants world peace. #Eurovision#Israel #Palestine pic.twitter.com/jxT1kOZli8
— Maria (@Gh2604057872) May 10, 2024
Despite facing controversy and protests from pro-Palestinian demonstrators, Israeli singer Golan advanced to the final of the Eurovision Song Contest on Thursday.
