Oikotimes.com has reported that Gordon Heuckeroth, of Dutch group De Toppers, is to leave the group with immediate effect. The group, which represented the Netherlands in the 2009 Eurovision Song Contest with "Shine", have yet to comment.Prior to the Eurovision Song Contest 2009, Gordon was seen by the Eurovision media as the antagonist of the Maltese 2009 entry singer, Chiara.
A very insulting footage for the Maltese artist aired on April 20 on RTL Bulevard (RTL4 Commercial). In the video Gordon (of The Toppers) confused an overweight lady during the welcoming of the Amsterdam gig with Chiara. Later on there was another bus coming and Godron said that "Chiara must be in it this time as the bus is hanging a bit between the wheels".
During the past days, Gordon stated, "I have for many years, with incredible pleasure, sung with De Toppers, highlighted by the participation in the Eurovision Song Contest in Moscow. Earlier this year, I indicated that I doubted whether I could add enough creatively to the group. I was responsible for the exuberant clothes, the spectacular surroundings and was the main instigator of the party feeling..."
"I have had lot of pleasure and put incredible passion into it. But after all the commotion of recent weeks, I come to the conclusion that I no longer have the creative force for the Toppers."
"I, of course, wish the Toppers well. I hope the rest around this super band returns and wish whoever takes over my place in the band, lots of fun, and I know better than anyone, it's great to be a Topper!"