Hands off Humperdinck! Terror claim dismissed

Posted by Simon Cross  ·  Be the first to comment

Eurovision organisers have moved to quash claims that Catholic crooner Englebert Humperdinck could become a terrorist target, when he performs in Azerbaijan.

Englebert Humperdinck is unlikely to be phased by threats

The dismissal comes after threats were posted on the internet, leading to fears that the veteran vocalist could become the centre of unwelcome attention from violent extremists.

Sietse Bakker, Eurovision Event Supervisor said: "The Azerbaijani security authorities are of course monitoring this kind of activity. We are completely confident in their ability to ensure this year's Eurovision Song Contest is held safely, for the enjoyment of all, as always."

In 2009 a number of men were sentenced to long prison sentences for their part in a failed plot to attack a number of targets in the Azerbaijani capital city of Baku, which is set to play host to the contest in June.

Earlier this year, a new terror cell was uncovered – after they had managed to bring a cache of firearms and explosives into the country from neighbouring Iran.

Now there are fears that a renewed offensive is planned, after online threats warned that Eurovision was a target, due to its supposed promotion of homosexuality.

Britain’s high profile entrant, Humperdinck, 75, who was born three years before the onset of World War Two, and is due to sing ‘Love Will Set You Free’ at the glitzy bash – could not be reached for comment.

But the aging heartthrob, whose real name is Arnold Dorsey, and who constructs a small altar in his dressing room when on tour, is unlikely to be phased by the threats.

Having played to sell-out crowds around the world, and already outlived many of his contemporaries, Englebert is used to the high risk – high reward world of showbiz fame.

The multi-platinum artist, who is a believer in faith healing, and says he prays for his audience during every performance – is currently recording a new album.

Security has been stepped up in Azerbaijan ahead of the contest, which will see singers from 42 countries perform before an audience of thousands.  Swedish entrant Loreen is the current favourite to win.

26th April

April 26th, 2012 - Posted & Written by Simon Cross

Thumbs Down 0
Thumbs Up 0

Did you find this article useful?

0 Visitor Comments

Join in the Eden community and comment on this article

Leave A Comment

Leave your comments or suggestions in regards to this article.

Please login to post a comment.
Most Popular Articles
Prayer Books Every Christian Should Read
Posted on Monday 15th of January
New Lent Bible Study Guides 2024
Posted on Monday 15th of January
LENT COURSES - How to choose the right one for you
Posted on Monday 15th of January
When is Easter 2024?
Posted on Friday 5th of January
Christian Christmas Cards
Posted on Friday 20th of October
Prayer Books Every Christian Should Read
Posted on Monday 15th of January
New Lent Bible Study Guides 2024
Posted on Monday 15th of January
LENT COURSES - How to choose the right one for you
Posted on Monday 15th of January
When is Easter 2024?
Posted on Friday 5th of January
Christian Christmas Cards
Posted on Friday 20th of October
LENT COURSES - How to choose the right one for you
Posted on Monday 15th of January
New Advent Study Guides
Posted on Monday 16th of October
Where to Watch the New C.S. Lewis Film
Posted on Thursday 12th of May
Free Christian Resources for Children
Posted on Friday 1st of May
The Eden Bible Guide series
Posted on Monday 17th of February
Recent Article Comments

Nia Wright has made 0 posts.

34 useful comments

A Reader has made 70 posts.

28 useful comments

Les Ellison has made 44 posts.

11 useful comments

James Warwood has made 4 posts.

9 useful comments

Lyn Myers has made 5 posts.

8 useful comments

Last updated: 35 mins ago