For decades, fans of the legendary Swedish pop group ABBA have been captivated not only by their timeless music but also by the intriguing dynamics between the band members. The group, which achieved international fame with hits like “Dancing Queen,” “Mamma Mia,” and “Take a Chance on Me,” was made up of two couples: Benny Andersson and Anni-Frid Lyngstad, and Björn Ulvaeus and Agnetha Fältskog. While their music brought joy to millions, the relationships within the group have always sparked rumors, speculation, and curiosity.
After more than 40 years of silence, ABBA’s Benny Andersson, now 74, has finally spoken out, confirming the long-standing rumors about his relationship with bandmate Anni-Frid Lyngstad. In an exclusive interview, Benny addressed the truth behind their personal lives, providing rare insight into their past and their enduring bond. Here’s everything you need to know about what Benny had to say and how it clears up some of the most burning questions about ABBA’s history.
The Rumors: A Love That Transcended the Stage
Throughout the years, ABBA fans and the media have long speculated about the nature of the relationships within the group, particularly between Benny Andersson and Anni-Frid Lyngstad. Their undeniable chemistry on stage led many to believe that there was more to their connection than just a professional partnership. As the years passed, fans grew curious about what had really transpired between them, especially after the band’s breakup in the early 1980s.
Though much of ABBA's personal lives were kept private, the public could not ignore the whispers about Benny and Anni-Frid's romantic history. The rumors intensified when both members went through divorces, and the group’s music began to take on a deeper emotional resonance. Songs like “The Winner Takes It All” and “Knowing Me, Knowing You” hinted at personal heartbreak, leaving fans wondering if these lyrics were inspired by real-life events within the group.
Despite all the speculation, Benny and Anni-Frid remained tight-lipped about their personal lives. They continued to perform and record together, maintaining a professional working relationship without addressing the rumors head-on. That is, until now.
Benny Andersson Speaks Out: The Truth Revealed
In a rare and candid interview with Swedish media, Benny Andersson finally opened up about his relationship with Anni-Frid, putting all the rumors to rest. At the age of 74, Benny’s reflections on ABBA’s past seem to offer a mix of nostalgia and honesty as he recounts the group's journey.
When asked directly about his romantic history with Anni-Frid, Benny confirmed that the two had indeed been a couple during the height of ABBA's success. "Yes, we were in love," he admitted, finally confirming what fans had long suspected. "We were very close, and our relationship was a big part of our lives during those years. But, like many relationships, it had its ups and downs, and it didn’t last."
Benny explained that the pressures of fame and the demands of their intense schedules had taken a toll on their personal lives. “It was difficult. We were constantly on the road, and we had to navigate being in the spotlight while also managing our own emotions and private lives,” Benny said. “But we always respected each other, and the music was what kept us together, even after the relationship ended.”