In an interview with the CH Media newspapers, Solothurn musician Florian Ast (49) commented on the blackmail scandal surrounding former Federal Councillor Alain Berset (52), which made headlines in 2020. At the centre of the affair was a woman who demanded that Berset pay compensation.
The affair involving Berset, who was a SP Federal Councillor from 2011 to 2023, was uncovered by the Weltwoche in 2020. Berset had a relationship with a then 25-year-old woman that began in 2012 and lasted until 2013. In 2019, the woman demanded financial compensation from Berset, including the cost of an abortion, which Berset refused.
The woman was arrested for attempted extortion – a confidentiality agreement followed. As a reminder: To protect the woman, the “Weltwoche” used the pseudonym “Scarlett Gehri”. Berset himself chose the name “Tigrillo”.
It has been speculated that this woman could be the mother of Ast’s first son. However, Ast does not give any clear answers to questions about his connection to the woman. He emphasizes that he does not want to comment on this question. However, he alludes to the rumors in his new song “Chumm mir singe eis”.
The song is full of allusions and hidden clues. The lyrics mention the story of “Tigrillo” and “Scarlett Gehri”. Ast also sings: “In the Black Forest, together in the clouds. It’s a shame it’s no longer there – or fortunately. The story is real, but so strange.”
Florian Ast has not commented on his possible connection to this woman in the past. In the interview, he merely hinted that he had been asked about this story for years and added: “Everyone seems to know everything, except me.” In his song, he addresses the secret that everyone apparently knows, according to the CH Media newspapers.
Ast himself is in a turbulent private situation. He has three children from three different women. He emphasizes that he loves his children, but has had difficulties in fulfilling the role of father.
In particular, he has not seen his first son for two years because the child’s mother makes contact difficult. Despite having official visitation rights, he has withdrawn out of consideration for his son and those around him.
Have you been following on Whatsapp for 20 minutes?
A news overview in the morning and at the end of the day, surprising stories and breaking news: Subscribe to the 20 Minutes WhatsApp channel and you will receive regular updates with our best stories directly on your mobile phone.
