Hungarian Artist Threatens to Move Abroad Amidst Government Criticism

Thuróczy on Politics, Culture, and a Potential Exit from Hungary

Actor Bence Thuróczy, known for his roles on stage and screen, doesn’t shy away from strong opinions. In a recent interview, Thuróczy offered a scathing critique of the current Hungarian political and cultural landscape, revealing a deep disillusionment and even hinting at a possible future outside the country.His reflections offer a unique perspective, blending personal political history with sharp observations on the state of Hungarian arts and entertainment.

From Fidesz Voter to Disillusioned Observer

Thuróczy readily admits to voting for fidesz during the regime change,a decision he attributes to a lack of viable alternatives at the time. as a young man from a rural background, he found no other party that resonated with his views. He contrasts this with the perceived Budapest-centric nature of SZDSZ and the limited appeal of the MDF to younger voters.

However, thuróczy now views the MDF with a degree of nostalgia, comparing it favorably to the current political climate. He remembers figures like József Torgyán, Gábor Kuncze, and Mihály Kupa as engaging and articulate politicians, a stark contrast to what he sees as the superficiality of contemporary politics. “Politics has been wholly transformed,” he stated, expressing a hope that this shift is temporary. He bluntly described the current state of affairs as existing in a “fucking” country,suggesting a level of frustration and dissatisfaction. He posited that individuals like Sándor Sára, Krisztián Ungváry, and Marcell Jankovics would be better suited to represent the right-wing perspective, contrasting them with current representatives Zsolt Bede and Tamás Menczer.

A Desire for Calm and a Potential Move to Rijeka

The actor expressed a longing for a more peaceful life, free from the current political turmoil, allowing him to focus on what he deems truly vital. He even indicated a willingness to leave Hungary if things don’t change after the 2026 parliamentary elections, specifically mentioning Rijeka as a potential destination.

Thuróczy also weighed in on the meteoric rise and subsequent fall from grace of Péter Magyar, the founder of the Momentum Movement.He offered a cynical assessment, stating, “the guy was gray in a year and a half,” suggesting a rapid decline in influence and credibility.

A Harsh Critique of Government-Funded Culture

As an actor, Thuróczy is notably critical of the cultural productions supported by the government.He views many of these projects as wasteful and lacking in artistic merit, describing them as “glittering medium-sized dorbéz, burning money as if there weren’t tomorrow.” While acknowledging some highlights, he expressed disappointment with recent productions like Hunyadi, finding the acting uninspired. He contrasted this with the 1963 adaptation of Tenkes,praising its quality and the performances of its actors. “There’s a grumbling here,no really brutal,good acting,” he lamented.

Gratitude for Emerging Artists, Concerns About Political Influence

Despite his criticisms, Thuróczy expressed enthusiasm for emerging performers like concrete.hofi,pagan starter,and Carson Coma. However, he also voiced concerns about the perceived influence of political power on the arts, likening the current situation to the control exerted by the MSZMP KB (Hungarian Socialist Workers’ Party central Committee) during the communist era – “in the Medicine of Labor.”

He acknowledged enjoying Majka’s song “Drink,” praising its broad appeal. He also found the recent government backlash against Majka’s performance ironic, noting that just months prior, they had dismissed his work as irrelevant to regional politics. This perceived hypocrisy further fuels his disillusionment with the current political climate.

Image: MTI/Mohai Balázs