98 | Copenhagen’s Little Mermaid: The Strange Saga of Denmark’s Most Famous Statue

What Are You Doing in Denmark?

May 20, 2025•28 min

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Episode description

You’ve seen the Instagram photos and passed the crowds in Copenhagen, but how much do you really know about the Little Mermaid statue?

In this episode, Derek, Mike, and Conrad have a laugh-filled discussion about the strange history of Denmark’s most iconic statue. From her origins in a Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale to being commissioned by a Danish beer magnate, to her many beheadings and even a diplomatic detour to China — the Little Mermaid has seen it all.

Laugh along as the guys explore her controversies, vandalism, obscure trivia, and some outrageous one-star reviews of the statue. There are some big feelings in Denmark and beyond so if you're planning a trip to Copenhagen or just love weird cultural history, this episode is for you!

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