Introduction
ABBA’s Björn Ulvaeus Reveals Marriage Struggles with Agnetha Fältskog
The video explores the rise and fall of Björn Ulvaeus and Agnetha Fältskog’s marriage, which unfolded under the pressures of global stardom with ABBA.
Björn, originally a member of the Hootenanny Singers, met Agnetha in 1969. Their instant connection led to marriage in 1971, followed by two children. Alongside Benny Andersson and Anni-Frid Lyngstad, they formed ABBA, achieving massive international fame with hits and tours that defined the 1970s.
However, behind the success, the couple’s personal struggles grew. Long absences from home after Eurovision left their daughter distant, and the pressures of fame weighed heavily on Agnetha, who often suffered anxiety and night terrors. Björn tried to support her, but both felt torn between their careers and family responsibilities.
By the late 1970s, their relationship had deteriorated. They separated in 1979 and divorced in 1980, though publicly called it a “happy divorce” to ease fans’ concerns. The truth was more painful. Björn poured his emotions into writing “The Winner Takes It All”, which Agnetha performed, making the song one of ABBA’s most iconic ballads. Performing it was deeply emotional, as it mirrored their real-life breakup.
While Björn quickly remarried and had more children, Agnetha struggled with therapy and feelings of abandonment. Both, however, admitted the divorce was difficult for them, and it left lasting scars on the band. By 1982, ABBA disbanded, their creative momentum consumed by personal turmoil.
Decades later, Björn reflected that their story proved how great songs come from deep human experiences. ABBA has since reunited in digital form with the Voyage project, continuing their legacy despite the painful past.