Greek-German singer Vicky Leandros made headlines this week after taking a firm stand against the presence of a far-right political figure at her concert in Bavaria, Germany. The renowned artist reportedly threatened to cancel her performance if Alice Weidel, co-leader of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, was allowed to attend.
Just hours before Leandros was due to appear at the Schlossfestspiele festival at the historic Thurn and Taxis Castle in Regensburg, she learned that Weidel had been invited by the event’s host, Princess Gloria von Thurn und Taxis. Leandros made her position clear to the organizers: either Weidel would not attend, or the concert would not go ahead.
According to German media, the singer told Princess Gloria that she would not perform on stage if Weidel was present. The invitation was subsequently withdrawn, and the concert proceeded as planned.
“Respect and freedom for all people”
Speaking to German tabloid Bild, Leandros explained her decision, referencing her childhood as an immigrant in Germany. “I always stand for diversity, tolerance, human dignity, human rights, and international solidarity,” she said. “I came to Germany from Athens at the age of five, and the German society embraced me. That’s how I want everyone to live—respected and free to be happy.”
Although Leandros acknowledged Weidel’s status as an elected official, she made clear that she could not accept the values associated with the AfD. “Alice Weidel is an elected politician. However, I do not share any values or beliefs with her,” Leandros said. “I won’t allow my stage to be used as a platform for such rhetoric or politics.”
Did Weidel attend in secret?
Despite the withdrawn invitation, Bild reported that Weidel may have attended the event anyway—albeit quietly. A photo appears to show her drinking champagne next to Princess Gloria at the castle while Leandros was performing in the garden. Although Weidel had earlier stated she would not attend the concert or dinner to avoid spoiling the evening for other guests, the report suggests she had already arrived at the castle the previous day and may have spent the night there.
While it’s unclear whether she directly crossed paths with Leandros, the singer’s firm stand sent a clear message about the values she upholds—both on and off the stage.
