Bengt Andersson – The locomotive driver and joy-maker from Umeå who captivated an entire generation
Bengt Erik Andersson, born on October 18, 1922 in Umeå County, Västerbotten County, was one of Sweden's most beloved entertainers. With his warm voice, twinkle in his eye, and unique ability to mix everyday humor with heartwarming stories, he became an icon in Swedish homes during the second half of the 20th century.
Andersson was not only an actor and TV personality – he was also a faithful train driver on the railway, a professional role he held on to until his retirement. His double life as a train driver and entertainer reflected his down-to-earth personality: a man who was just as happy driving a locomotive through the vast expanses of Norrland as he was entertaining children and adults in front of the camera.
Andersson's path to the limelight began at Sveriges Radio in Umeå, where he worked as a radio host. It was here that he met his equally enthusiastic colleague Staffan Ling. Together they created one of the most memorable couples in Swedish television history. Their big breakthrough came with the children's program Sant och sant during the 1970s and 1980s, a format that mixed facts, fun and interaction with viewers. The program was a success and led to a series of sequels, including the Christmas calendars Julstrul with Staffan & Bengt (1984) and Liv i luckan with Staffan & Bengt (1988). The chemistry of the two friends – Staffan's pedagogical elegance against Bengt's Norrland charm – made them a household name. Together they recorded Christmas albums, toured with live shows and even guested on cooking programs such as Matmakarna on TV4 in Bengt's very last appearance.
In parallel with his media career, Andersson continued his work as a train driver, an occupation that reminded him of his roots in real life. He also made his debut on the silver screen in films such as Snowroller – Sällskapsresan II (1985) and Guld! (1988), where he contributed his characteristic humor.
On December 12, 2007, Bengt Andersson died in Umeå, aged 85, after a period of illness. His passing was mourned by many, but his legacy lives on in the form of nostalgic reruns and memories of a time when TV entertainment felt personal and authentic. Bengt Andersson was more than an entertainer – he was a friend to millions, a reminder that the simple, the local and the heartfelt are often the most enduring.
In Umeå, his hometown, he is still remembered today.