Father Ted co-creator Graham Linehan has accused Ireland's national broadcaster RTE of using his show as a 'tool of antisemitic harassment' after it aired the Eurovision-themed episode in place of the song contest. RTE is boycotting Eurovision 2026 over Israel's participation, citing the war in Gaza.
Linehan demanded the resignation of RTE director-general Kevin Bakhurst, calling the boycott antisemitic. He said in a petition that singling out Israel while not applying the same standard to Russia, Belarus, or Azerbaijan meets the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of antisemitism.
RTE will show the Father Ted episode 'A Song for Europe' during the Eurovision final slot on Saturday, and alternative programming during the semi-finals. Linehan said he did not give permission for his show to be used in what he called an 'antisemitic political gesture'.
RTE declined to comment beyond a December statement saying Ireland's participation was 'unconscionable' given the loss of life in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis. Ireland, Spain, Slovenia, the Netherlands, and Iceland are not sending acts to Eurovision 2026, though the Netherlands and Iceland will still broadcast the final.
Earlier this month, Linehan had a conviction for damaging a transgender campaigner's mobile phone overturned by a High Court judge.
