In recent weeks, DR’s documentary ‘Sexism in the Music Industry’ has sent shockwaves through the Danish entertainment world. The documentary, released in two parts, highlights the grim conditions many female musicians still have to live under in 2024. One of the most prominent revelations concerns musician Martin Brygmann, whose inappropriate behavior and grooming were exposed after he confirmed his identity by suing DR. The documentary not only portrays Brygmann’s cases, but also several other instances of sexism and abuse of power in the industry.
Among the many testimonies, there is also a focus on a musician from TV 2’s popular show ‘Toppen af Poppen’. Female musicians like Stine Bramsen and Katinka Bjerregaard share their experiences of unacceptable behavior from male colleagues, illustrating how sexism still pervades the industry. In parallel with these revelations in the music industry, new reflections have also arisen on past cases, such as that of Carla Mickelborg. In her book “Hvad er det, du ved” from 2021, Mickelborg describes how she was seduced by a colleague 26 years her senior during the filming of the popular family film “Father of Four” when she was 16. The older colleague, whom Mickelborg does not name, first initiated a flirtatious relationship, which later developed into sex. This relationship has had long-term consequences for Mickelborg’s relationships with men and her self-esteem.
In the book, Mickelborg describes how she appreciated the older man’s attention and presence, but also how this relationship has negatively affected her in the long run. “It has ruined some things for me sexually, emotionally, and in my connection to the opposite sex,” she says. Mickelborg has had to work through the traumas and boundary issues that arose as a result of this early and unethical relationship. These stories clearly show how sexism and abuse of power continue to be serious problems in the entertainment industry, despite increased attention and debate in recent years.
The documentary ‘Sexism in the Music Industry’ highlights how women, both established and new artists, still have to navigate an industry that often judges them based on their appearance rather than their talent. However, there is hope that the new revelations can help bring about change. The brave women who come forward in the documentary, and in cases like Carla Mickelborg’s. The documentary ‘Sexism in the Music Industry’ also emphasizes how difficult it is for women to break the silence, often out of fear of reprisals. Only 13 out of 150 contacted women chose to come forward with their names and faces, showing how great the fear still is.