Germany’s Eurovision Star Abor Apologises for Past Homophobic Posts: «That Wasn’t Me… Anymore»
When you take to the Eurovision stage, you hope your vocals hit the high notes – not that your past Reddit comments do. But for Abor, the Austrian-born singer of electro-pop duo Abor & Tynna, the spotlight has now turned painfully off-pitch.
Not Quite the Encore He Wanted
After a respectable 15th place finish representing Germany in Basel with their pounding hit Baller, Abor – real name Attila Bornemisza – finds himself in a media whirlwind not over sequins or synths, but screenshots.
A collection of posts, many unearthed from the digital fossil bed that is Reddit, show a younger Abor allegedly criticising LGBTQ+ rights campaigns, expressing pro-Trump views, and displaying uncomfortably warm feelings for Hungary’s ultra-conservative leader Viktor Orbán. Not quite the image one expects from a Eurovision act – unless we’re talking satire, which sadly, we’re not.
From Denial to Apology Tour
Initially, Abor tried the classic “not my account” routine, but later came clean on Instagram:
“Old posts and comments have resurfaced, rightfully sparking criticism. Some are from years ago, and I deeply regret them. Denying ownership of the account out of shame didn’t help – and for that, I apologise too.”
He went on to stress that his views have evolved, adding:
“I can’t undo what I said, but I want to be clear: I’d never say or write anything like that today. It doesn’t reflect who I am anymore.”
Cue the slow clap of damage control.
Sister Act: Solidarity with a Side of Distance
Tynna, Abor’s sister and bandmate, was quick to respond on her own Instagram:
“I had no idea about these posts. I don’t share those views, but as family, I support his efforts to take responsibility.”
It’s the kind of response that screams, “I love him, but I’m not going down with this ship.”
Public and Broadcaster Reactions
Germany’s public broadcaster NDR acknowledged the controversy and is “reviewing the matter.” Eurovision fans remain divided – some praise Abor’s honest reflection, others are less forgiving, pointing out that remorse is easier once the ticket to stardom has been punched.
Still, there’s something Eurovision-esque about the whole affair: a little drama, a little redemption, and a big audience deciding what comes next.
Source: Der Spiegel
