Pop band Abba have paid tribute to their longtime manager Görel Hanser, known fondly among fans as their “fifth member”, who has died, aged 76.
The Swedish stars shared a brief statement to their Instagram announcing the news of her death, calling the loss “immeasurable”.
“It is with the deepest sorrow that we announce the passing of Görel Hanser,” they wrote.
“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 message was signed by Abba’s four members, Agnetha Fältskog, Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, and Anni-Frid Lyngstad.
Hanser was instrumental in the running of Abba’s career, having started in the industry as a secretary for Stig Anderson’s publishing company.
She went on to manage Abba and their connections with record labels, while also joining them on tours and being their line of communication with the press.
When the time came for their long-awaited reunion in 2018, it was Hanser who shared the first behind-the-scenes photos of the band back in the recording studio.
Abba famously recorded the song “Sång Till Görel” for her 30th birthday (21 June 1979) as a gift and tribute to her.
The track was prohibited from airplay on radio and it was rumoured that just 50 copies were printed, making it one of the most sought-after collectibles in their catalogue.
It paid tribute to Hanser’s organisational skills, her tireless work on behalf of the group and her many other attributes.
Over the years, she became fondly known among fans as Abba’s “fifth member”, with the club Abba Access referring to her as such in its own tribute.
“We are lost for words,” organisers wrote on their Instagram page. “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 help shape the story that millions of us have come to love. To many of us, she was the fifth member of Abba.”
The statement continued: “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.”
The fans said it was difficult to imagine Abba’s story without Hanser: “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.”
They concluded: “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.”
