A Cat, A Man, and A Council Seat: Fenriz’s Unplanned Political Gig in Kolbotn

In 2016, the town of Kolbotn witnessed an unusual electoral outcome as Fenriz, a prominent figure in the Norwegian black metal scene, was elected as a backup representative to the town council, despite a campaign that humorously discouraged residents from voting for him.

A Cat, A Man, and A Council Seat: Fenriz's Unplanned Political Gig in Kolbotn
Fenriz’s “Please don’t vote for me” election poster

An Unlikely Political Candidate

In a rather unusual turn of events in 2016, Gylve Fenris Nagell, widely known as Fenriz, found himself inadvertently stepping into the realm of local politics. A prominent figure in the Norwegian black metal scene, Fenriz became an accidental backup representative in the town council of Kolbotn, a suburb situated to the south of Oslo, Norway.

Fenriz, born on November 28, 1971, in Kolbotn, has been a notable presence in the music scene since the mid-80s. He is a key member of Darkthrone, a band that initially embraced death metal before pioneering the Norwegian black metal genre. Beyond his musical accolades, Fenriz is recognized in his hometown not only for his influential contributions to the black metal scene but also for his unexpected venture into local politics. Adding a personal touch to his political campaign, the famed musician showcased his affection for animals, particularly cats, in his campaign photo.

A Glimpse into Kolbotn

Kolbotn, nestled in the municipality of Oppegård in Akershus county, Norway, is a quaint town that serves as the canvas for Darkthrone’s vivid musical illustrations. Just a stone’s throw away from Norway’s bustling capital, Oslo, this suburban enclave lies approximately 13 kilometers south, offering a harmonious blend of nature and culture to its 6000 residents.

Embodying a close-knit community vibe, Kolbotn is home to a diverse populace that includes families, working professionals, and individuals deeply connected to the vibrant cultural canvas of the region. The town offers picturesque surroundings, with Lake Kolbotn being a popular spot for various recreational activities, allowing residents to immerse themselves in the tranquil embrace of lush green spaces.

Kolbotn’s rich cultural scene is reflected not only in the events, concerts, and exhibitions that adorn its calendar year-round but also in the deep-rooted influence it has had on Darkthrone’s music style and evolution. The blend of history and modernity in Kolbotn’s cultural landscape has significantly shaped the band’s lyrical narratives and album artworks, offering a reservoir of inspiration that flows into their music.

This picturesque town, with its combination of scenic beauty and a rich tapestry of cultural events, fosters a strong sense of community, unity, and camaraderie among its residents.

Fenriz’s Quirky Foray into Local Politics

In a turn of events that can only be described as uniquely Fenriz, the Darkthrone member found himself inadvertently stepping into the realm of local politics in 2016. It all began when he agreed to be a part of a backup list for the local council elections in Kolbotn, never genuinely anticipating that he would secure a spot.

The campaign was anything but conventional, featuring a casual poster of Fenriz with his beloved cat, a stark departure from the formalized portraits of other candidates. Accompanying this charming photograph was a candid request: “Please don’t vote for me.” Despite this clear message, or perhaps because of it, the campaign attracted a significant amount of attention, resonating with the town’s residents through its refreshing humour and light-heartedness.

As fate would have it, the combination of his candid approach and the whimsical presence of his cat captivated the hearts of the voters, leading to his unexpected election as a backup representative to the town council. In this role, Fenriz is expected to fill in during the absence of the primary representative at council meetings, a responsibility he is slated to uphold for a four-year term as per the council’s stipulations.

As fate would have it, the combination of his candid approach and the whimsical presence of his cat captivated the hearts of the voters, leading to his unexpected election as a backup representative to the town council.

This quirky chapter in Fenriz’s life not only highlights his amiable personality but also showcases the unpredictable and sometimes humorous paths life can venture down, even for a black metal icon.

A Reluctant Councilman Embraces His New Role with Humor

In a twist that seemed more fitting for a quirky sitcom than real life, Fenriz found himself in the unexpected role of a councilman, a position he accepted with a dose of humour and a substantial dose of reluctance. Initially embarking on the campaign as a jest, he never anticipated that the people of Kolbotn would take to his candid appeal and elect him as a backup representative to the town council.

Fenriz’s reaction to the election results was a mixture of surprise and irony. He acknowledged that his campaign was more of a joke than a serious endeavour, and he had little interest in venturing into the political arena. In various interviews, Fenriz approached the topic with a chuckle, sharing the ironic tale with audiences worldwide. Despite his reservations, Fenriz committed to fulfilling his duties if called upon, embracing his new role with a grace infused with a touch of irony.

The incident unfolded to widespread amusement both locally and globally, with many finding a light-hearted and comedic element in the unexpected turn of events. The community in Kolbotn echoed this sentiment, rallying behind Fenriz with support and a shared sense of humour over the situation.

The quirky story caught the attention of international media, quickly going viral and becoming a hot topic in the metal community. Fans of Darkthrone and individuals across the globe found amusement in the incident, highlighting the unpredictability of life and the charm that comes with embracing the unexpected with a smile.