Greta Thunberg is known worldwide for her climate activism, but her younger sister is making a name for herself in a very different field. The Swedish performer, who goes by Bea MonaLisa, is building a career in music and entertainment, combining powerful vocals with bold fashion choices and an unapologetically theatrical personality.
At 20, Bea has already attracted attention for her performances and distinctive online presence. Described as a gay icon in a July interview, she is developing an artistic identity that stands apart from her sister's public image. With a debut album in the works and a message centred on identity and female empowerment, Bea is a name to watch for fans of alternative pop and expressive personal style.
Inside Bea's Artistic Upbringing
Bea, whose full name is Beata MonaLisa Ernman Andersson, grew up in a family with strong connections to the performing arts. Her mother, Malena Ernman, is an acclaimed Swedish opera singer who represented Sweden at the Eurovision Song Contest in 2009. Her father, Svante Thunberg, is an actor and producer.
While Greta became internationally known for her climate activism, Bea pursued singing and dancing from an early age. She later played a young Édith Piaf in the Swedish musical Forever Piaf, appearing alongside her mother, opera singer Malena Ernman
Her decision to use the name Bea MonaLisa also gives her a distinct artistic identity. In her conversation with Interview Magazine, she explained that MonaLisa came from her grandmother Mona and great-grandmother Lisa.
How Is She Different From Greta?
The sisters have pursued contrasting careers. Greta became a prominent voice in the global climate movement after beginning her school strikes in Stockholm in 2018. Her public appearances often focus on environmental responsibility, political accountability and wider social issues.
Bea, meanwhile, is pursuing a career built around music, performance and visual expression. Her social media features flamboyant outfits, dramatic poses, dance moves and vocal performances, including a rendition of Whitney Houston's I Will Always Love You that helped bring her wider attention online.
However, their different public images do not necessarily mean they have opposing values. Bea's artistic work also engages with social issues, particularly gender expectations and freedom of identity. She described her forthcoming album as 'pro-queer, anti-macho', signalling an interest in challenging restrictive ideas about femininity and masculinity.
Bea has also expressed a desire to establish her own identity, focusing on her music and performances instead of her connection to Greta.
Greta Thunberg's sister is a risqué pop star who's got nothing to say about climate change https://t.co/LfZVBmKZXK pic.twitter.com/8dziCFZ2YL
— New York Post (@nypost) July 12, 2026
Why Bea Is Called a Gay Icon
The label gained attention during Bea's previous interview, when the publication discussed her connection with queer audiences. Asked about her sexuality, she clarified that she is not queer but has a queer fan base.
She also recalled being invited by Robert Fux, the host of Drag Race Sweden, to perform at a queer event. 'It was the best night of my life. I felt like I was accepted as an artist for the first time,' Bea said. She subsequently wrote a tribute song 'You're the Upgrade' inspired by that experience.
For now, she is continuing to develop her music career, stepping further into the spotlight in a way that allows audiences to get to know her beyond her connection to her sister. Greta may have found her platform through climate activism, but Bea is carving out hers through music, theatrical performance and a determination to define herself on her own terms.
