The murder in Knutby in 2004 received great attention, but it took almost 15 years before the Pentecostal congregation was finally dissolved and several pastors were convicted of abuse.
The first season of "Knutby" depicted the events surrounding the murder – the second season, which begins on TV4 Play on February 18, describes what happened after the crime drew attention to the sect.
It became a more and more claustrophobic feeling for all of them, says Aliette Opheim.
"Huge Appetite"
She received the TV award Kristallen for her role as the notorious sect leader Kristi Brud. And although it felt like a challenge to reprise the role, she never hesitated when it became clear that there would be a continuation.
It's clear that I was huge appetite. It's the absolute most fun role I've done.
Aliette Opheim has never had contact with the real Kristi Brud, Åsa Waldau, but has tried to understand her motivations in order to portray her – and what lay behind her abuse of congregation members.
I don't think anyone initially acted out of malice. Not even her. Then, of course, she didn't have to abuse and do what she did. But that's what's so scary when someone becomes as elevated as she did.
Rock Star
Aliette Opheim has even described Kristi Brud as warm and generous.
Those who have lived close to the real person have said that she gave gifts and took care of them. You felt seen by her, you felt listened to. I think that was a prerequisite for the destructive relationship.
When the new season begins, a new member joins Knutby. Örjan, who is also based on a real person, soon becomes a pastor and starts a relationship with Kristi Brud.
The role of Örjan is played by Alex Jubell, who, in addition to being an actor, also plays in the acclaimed Gothenburg band Terra.
Alex Jubell now lives in Stockholm and commutes between the east and west coasts. He says that his bandmates support his double life.
They're bloody tired of my logistical problems all the time, but I think they think it's really fun that I get to do these things too, he says.
Alex Jubell has just left Malmö City Theatre to take on more roles as a freelancer, while his rock career is steadily taking off. This spring, several major concerts with Terra are awaiting.
Is there a risk that you'll burn out?
There's definitely a risk, but it feels okay so far.
Helge Fossmo was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2004 for having persuaded the nanny Sara Svensson to murder his wife Alexandra in Knutby, Uppland. She was also convicted of attempted murder of another congregation member. Sara Svensson was sentenced to closed psychiatric care and was released in 2011. Fossmo was released in 2022.
The Knutby congregation came into the media spotlight after the murder because Pastor Åsa Waldau was considered by congregation members to be Christ's Bride. The congregation continued to exist until 2018, but in 2020, Åsa Waldau was convicted of eight counts of assault. Two more people from Knutby were also convicted, for assault and unlawful coercion, respectively, and sexual exploitation of a person in a vulnerable position.
"Knutby – Christ's Bride" premieres behind a paywall on TV4 Play on February 18 and will air on TV4 on March 4.
