Wolf Kati Accuses 444 of Sensationalism, Defends Record of Work & Volunteerism
Budapest, Hungary – Singer Wolf Kati has launched a scathing critique of online news outlet 444.hu, accusing them of prioritizing sensationalism over journalistic integrity in a recent article about her. The article, which focused on a 2016 award she received for volunteer work, prompted a lengthy response from the artist, published online, where she vehemently rejected being portrayed as anyone’s “grace” (favored one).
The controversy stems from an award presented to Wolf Kati in 2016 by then-Minister Zoltán Balog, recognizing her consistent volunteer work. Wolf Kati stated she hadn’t considered the life philosophies of Balog or other award recipients at the time, but was simply pleased to receive the recognition. The award, she emphasized, wasn’t for her musical achievements, but for her ongoing commitment to volunteer work that began during her time on the Hungarian X-Factor. She proudly stated her institution welcomes anyone and provides assistance to numerous families and children.
“He managed to get them together in the article,which made him roared in the title,that I was a grace,” Wolf Kati wrote,referring to the 444.hu author. “I don’t know if I had ever been a grace of anyone, or I would be.”
Wolf Kati further detailed a long career built on hard work,listing a multitude of performances,studio sessions,judging roles,and concerts. She described her political stance as liberal,stating she judges individuals based on their actions,not their political affiliations. She pointed to her participation in Pride events,including a performance in Sweden years ago,as evidence of her commitment to supporting minority groups.
“This is not about being a grace of anyone,” she asserted. “I do my job, sing, create, teach, and live with it.”
She strongly refuted any suggestion of receiving unearned benefits, stating, “I never found a single forint on my account, which would not have been done with work, but from a rubbing to anyone, and I am not a grace or I was for anyone.”
The core of Wolf Kati’s criticism centers on what she perceives as a lack of genuine journalism. Addressing the author directly, she questioned the use of “Ner” (a potentially derogatory term) and the label of “grace,” and concluded with a direct challenge: “What you do is not journalism, facts, research, examination, and seeking justice, no slogan, and good-looking stupid things that bring views.”
