ABBA have announced the death of their longtime manager and dear friend Görel Hanser at the age of 76. The music icons shared the heartbreaking news in a joint statement posted across their social media accounts, accompanied by a black and white photograph of their beloved colleague.
"It is with deepest sorrow we announce the passing of Görel Hanser. We have lost our most loved friend and closest colleague. The loss is immeasurable. We ask that you respect our privacy in this time of grief," the statement read. It was signed by all four band members: Agnetha Fältskog, Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson and Frida Lyngstad.
No cause of death has been disclosed. The iconic group was inundated with messages of support from admirers across the globe extending their sympathies.
Görel Hanser's Journey with ABBA
Görel had been with the quartet since their formative years. She began her journey in September 1969 at the offices of their initial manager, Stig Anderson's publishing firm Sweden Music and the record label Polar Music. She quickly earned promotion to his personal assistant and emerged as a pivotal figure within the organisation, eventually rising to Vice President of the record label.
Throughout the band's golden era, she collaborated intimately with the group and ultimately took on the role of their personal manager, overseeing media relations and joining them on concert tours and publicity ventures. She also became a treasured personal confidante of each individual group member.
For her 30th birthday in 1979, the band composed and recorded a special track, Sång Till Görel, together with Stig Anderson. Only a few copies were pressed and gifted to her and her friends to mark the occasion. The song is banned from radio play and is among the most sought-after ABBA records ever.
Fans' Tribute: The Fifth Member
Görel was well known to fans and would frequently personally communicate with them regarding autographs and other requests. Callers to Benny's studio were often surprised to see her answering the door herself.
Fan group ABBA Access described her as the "fifth member" of the iconic group and recalled what she meant to fans worldwide. "We are lost for words... Today, our hearts are heavy as we say goodbye to Görel Hanser. For decades, Görel stood beside ABBA through every chapter of their journey. Her loyalty, dedication, warmth, and unwavering belief in the group helped shape the story that millions of us have come to love. To many of us, she was the fifth member of ABBA."
"What made Görel truly special was not only the incredible work she did behind the scenes, but the kindness she showed to fans around the world. She always understood how much ABBA meant to us, and she treated that connection with genuine care and respect."
"It is difficult to imagine ABBA's story without Görel. Her impact will continue to be felt for generations to come. Today, we mourn a remarkable woman, but we also celebrate a life of loyalty, friendship, and love for the people and music that brought us all together."
"Thank you, Görel, for everything you gave to ABBA and to the fans. Your legacy will never be forgotten. Our deepest condolences go to her family, friends, and everyone whose lives she touched. Rest in peace, wonderful Görel."
