AVROTROS Takes on Eurovision 2025: Taco Zimmerman Speaks Out on the New Rules and Challenges

In a candid interview, Taco Zimmerman, director of AVROTROS, shared fresh insights into the Dutch broadcaster’s decision to return to Eurovision 2025 after last year’s controversy surrounding Joost Klein. Despite initial hesitation, AVROTROS was swayed by the European Broadcasting Union’s (EBU) promises of meaningful reforms aimed at safeguarding artists and ensuring a fairer playing field.

Zimmerman highlighted that the decision to re-join the contest wasn’t easy: “It was a process. The EBU showed genuine concern over what happened, with extensive reviews and a real willingness to look critically at the festival’s structure.” This move came after AVROTROS, and other broadcasters, pushed for significant backstage changes following Klein’s disqualification in Malmö—a decision that Zimmerman still describes as “disproportionate.”

Only Seasoned Acts Need Apply

With an open call for entries, Zimmerman made it clear that AVROTROS seeks an experienced act with both stage expertise and a record deal, a shift that marks the broadcaster’s increasing emphasis on professionalism. “We can’t just send anyone,” Zimmerman remarked, suggesting that only a well-prepared artist can handle Eurovision’s immense pressure, media frenzy, and fan expectations.

After a “hectic” few weeks following Klein’s withdrawal, applications have been flooding in, and AVROTROS is confident they’ll land on the perfect fit to represent the Netherlands in Basel. A seasoned, strategic selection has become essential for the Dutch delegation, especially after recent turbulent years. Zimmerman mentioned that additional mental support and “safety nets” for the artist are being considered to handle the scale and demands of the festival.

The Fallout from Malmö

Though unwilling to go too deep into specifics, Zimmerman doubled down on his belief that Klein’s disqualification was an overreach. According to him, the incident left a mark on Dutch Eurovision fans and reinforced the need for safer backstage policies. Fortunately, the EBU’s updates are tackling these issues: the introduction of a backstage safety manager, limits on behind-the-scenes filming, and a “safe space” for artists to unwind are some of the new steps towards a more balanced environment.

A New Era of Eurovision Begins

Zimmerman and AVROTROS look to Eurovision 2025 with cautious optimism, hopeful that the revamped festival can deliver a safer, fairer experience for all involved. “We’re ready to return, but only with these changes in place,” Zimmerman concluded, setting the stage for an exciting new chapter.

Source: AD.nl