Why did bjorn and agnetha divorce?

Totally unexpected news began the year of 1979, Agnetha and Björn were seeking a divorce after eight years of marriage. Their relationship had been on rocky ground for quite sometime, although both partners were able to keep it secret. On Christmas Eve, Agnetha decided that she no longer wanted to feel the hurt of this relationship, and both partners agreed there was nothing more they could do except part. Björn moved out. The breakup had been coming for quite sometime. We just drifted apart, it's as simple as that. When you talk about everything and you still don't get through to one another, then it's a sign that there's really nothing left between you. I guess we would have separated whether we were pop singers or not, and we would have made the same decision, if it had meant disbanding ABBA,'' said Agnetha. By mutual agreement, Agnetha and Björn agreed to stay with ABBA. It actually was a relief for both of them and ABBA became stronger than ever. They both knew that the reports of their divorce would certainly spark rumors and speculation by the press. The following interviews were printed in one Swedish newspaper.

AGNETHA: Bjorn and I made the decision together and things are much better. Yes, I went through a period of unhappiness. Bjorn and I decided that together we'd consult a psychiatrist. We wanted an outside person looking at us, in case it should have been something about our relationship that we both couldn't see. It didn't help to keep us together, but it did help us. We were told that the decision that we had already made, that we couldn't go on living together, was a good one. It wasn't easy to do but I feel very strong now. Our decision is a good one because we both agreed. If one meets another person and leaves because of that, it's a different situation, a sad one. I'm in a new phase now and it's quite exciting. It's much better now, much. Bjorn is still a good friend of mine. You don't live with someone for eight years, have two children and not retain some feeling. All I can say is that music had nothing to do with the split of our marriage.''

BJORN: Agnetha and I are both concerned about the welfare of the children, and we'll always be good friends. Agnetha and I have each bought a house about five minutes apart because our children are of utmost importance to us. It is essential that they grow up able to see both parents when they want to. It would be hopeless to live hundreds of miles apart. Agnetha and I have no problems working together now. Before we got a divorce we found that despite our best efforts at working things out, we found ourselves growing apart and our problems increasing. But we did not give up on this marriage easily or quickly. It took two years before we agreed to end it. There is no tension, but of course there was much crying. I come to realize that Agnetha and I are totally different people. We were making our lives and the lives of everyone around us miserable. Once we made the decision to part, it eased a lot of tension in the group. The split had to come. It was the case of a parting of two egocentrics.''

Despite the above statements the press still sensationalized the divorce.

Source: http://www.agnetha.net/BIOGRAPHY/BIO.html

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