A statue of the Olsen Gang, Denmark’s beloved trio of bumbling criminals, was unveiled at Tingstedet in Valby on May 31, 2025, near Nordisk Film, where the iconic films originated. Created by Danish sculptor Thor Larsen, the statue was the result of a citizen initiative led by Henrik Hansen, who raised funds and managed the project.

However, the sculpture’s placement and artistic merit have sparked debate. Critics argue that the sculpture fails to capture the magic of the Olsen Gang films and feels randomly placed, lacking integration with the surrounding space. The visual arts committee of Copenhagen Municipality initially opposed the sculpture, but it was approved by the Technical and Environmental Committee.

The Olsen Gang films, a national treasure, have sold over eight million cinema tickets, solidifying their place in Danish film history. Egon, Benny, and Kjeld, portrayed by Ove Sprogøe, Morten Grunwald, and Poul Bundgaard, resonate with audiences as caricatures of the Danish folk character.

Some question the appropriateness of placing bronze representations of commercial trademarks in public spaces. The Olsen Gang is not only a cultural phenomenon but also a brand owned by Nordisk Film. This raises concerns about the potential for a proliferation of sculptures depicting commercial figures, a development some view as regrettable.

Despite the criticism, the sculpture has proven popular with the public, drawing crowds who take photos and selfies with the iconic characters. The debate highlights the complex interplay between art, commerce, and public opinion in shaping the urban landscape.