Borgen tells the story of a strong and professional woman, Birgitte Nyborg. The introduction of menopause brings a new angle to her control, adding an interesting dimension to her character in this modern narrative
If you’re a woman who tuned in for the fourth season of the internationally acclaimed TV series Borgen, you undoubtedly observed the main character, Birgitte Nyborg, navigating the challenges of hot flashes, varying appetite, and disrupted sleep—a portrayal eloquently capturing the complex nuances of menopause.
Intriguingly, the decision to explore menopause in the narrative wasn’t arbitrary; screenwriter Adam Price sheds light on the thoughtful considerations that went into depicting Nyborg’s experience. The evolving age of Birgitte Nyborg, from a dynamic political leader in her 40s in the first season to a woman in her early 50s in the latest installment, provided a natural backdrop for addressing the profound changes in her life.
“For us, it was natural to talk about what’s going on in her body. It’s especially interesting because she sees herself as one hundred percent professional, with almost nothing in her life not professionally oriented,” says Price. “It’s fascinating to portray her body working against her.”
Crucially, the role of Birgitte Nyborg is portrayed by Sidse Babett Knudsen, a woman in her 50s, adding authenticity to the character’s age-related experiences.
Discussing Every Life Stage is Crucial
While delving into the specifics of menopause in Borgen, Adam Price emphasizes the broader importance of discussing every life stage. Borgen, known for its exploration of the intersection between the professional and the private, delves into the fundamental question of whether one can maintain power while preserving personal well-being.
“In the latest season, Birgitte Nyborg is a very powerful politician. She is party chairman and foreign minister in a newly appointed government, which means she works 16-17 hours a day as foreign minister,” notes Price.
Nyborg’s relentless schedule occasionally collides with the realities of menopause, offering what Price describes as an “insanely interesting” exploration. Her body sends signals, reminding her that she is in the midst of a significant life transition.
Drawing on Experiences from Home
To authentically portray menopause, Price draws from personal experiences, specifically from his mother’s candid discussions about her own menopausal journey. His mother, a highly accomplished professional in acting, directing, and theater management, exemplifies a generation that values control and resents any disruptions to functionality.
“We could see quite clearly that things were happening when she got hot flashes, how the hormonal fluctuations were reflected in mood swings. I think it’s important for the people around to know why it is happening,” Price reflects.
The Hot Flash Scene
The portrayal of menopause in Borgen is not merely a theoretical exploration but a carefully researched depiction of specific symptoms. In one poignant scene, Nyborg, amidst an important government meeting, experiences a hot flash, an entirely normal yet inconvenient occurrence.
“A hot flash is completely normal, but for Birgitte Nyborg, it’s incredibly inconvenient. She is almost angry with her body,” explains Price. “She’s angry at her menopause because it prevents her from being the person she used to be, and I think that’s interesting.”
This scene becomes pivotal, as Nyborg’s brief absence leads to a shift in the meeting’s dynamics. The realization that the meeting might have turned out differently without the hot flash adds an intriguing layer to the narrative.
Balancing Act
Price acknowledges the delicate balance required in portraying menopause in Borgen. The intent is not to overshadow Nyborg’s functionality but to intermittently highlight menopause as a supporting theme, reminding both the character and the audience of the significant life phase she is navigating.
“It’s crucial that we show the truth and tell some things that are sometimes complex. Hopefully, we can help push an agenda. We’ve certainly tried to do that in Borgen,” concludes Price.