When ABBA Came to Britain, 6 April 2024, BBC Two

In this documentary, viewers are taken on a journey through ABBA’s 50-year relationship with the UK, exploring the impact of British culture on the band and their lasting legacy in the country.

When ABBA Came to Britain features previously unheard interviews with the band members themselves, offering a unique insight into their experiences. It also includes new interviews with those who met them, such as superfans whose lives were changed by ABBA’s music.

The documentary begins by chronicling ABBA’s first visit to the UK for the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest in Brighton, where they won over the hearts of the nation with their performance of “Waterloo”. This triumph marked a turning point for the Swedish supergroup, as they went on to achieve international success.

ABBA’s connection to the UK goes beyond their Eurovision victory. The documentary delves into the influence of British bands like The Beatles on ABBA’s sound and how Britain became a key market for their music. The group’s first UK concert in Birmingham in 1977 and their groundbreaking ABBA Voyage concerts in London are also highlighted.

The programme also explores the impact ABBA had on British fans, including a now-famous member of the children’s choir that accompanied them at Wembley Arena in 1979. The documentary captures the enduring fascination with ABBA in the UK, showcasing their lasting influence on British pop culture.

“When ABBA Came to Britain” airs on BBC Two at 9:35 pm on Saturday, 6 April 2024.