Dorina Galambos, who first gained national recognition as a 19-year-old contestant on the debut season of the Hungarian talent show Megasztár, has maintained a professional career in music for over two decades. Since her appearance in the competition’s top 12, she has transitioned from mainstream pop to jazz, earned industry recognition, and returned to television for performance-based reality formats.
Evolution from Megasztár to Jazz Success
Following her Megasztár breakthrough, Galambos released her debut album, Játékország, in 2005. According to the artist, she eventually sought to move beyond standard pop music, favoring a broader musical palette. This shift led to the formation of the band Mrs Columbo in 2008. The group’s 2013 album, (re)makeup, received significant critical acclaim, winning the Hungarian Fonogram Award for Jazz Album of the Year.
Did you know?
Despite the passage of twenty years, Galambos reports that she remains in contact with fellow Megasztár alumni Vera Tóth and Zoli Mujahid.
Return to Television Performance
In recent years, Galambos has re-entered the spotlight through major television productions. In 2022, she joined the cast of TV2’s Sztárban Sztár, a performance challenge that requires contestants to undergo intensive physical transformations. Galambos noted that the process is physically demanding, citing the three-hour makeup application times and the difficulty of singing while wearing restrictive masks.
She continued her television work in 2025 by participating in Sztárban Sztár All Stars. This production reunited her with former Megasztár castmate Heni Dér. Additionally, her performance of the Heaven Street Seven song “Dél-Amerika”—originally by Krisztián Szűcs—on the program Csináljuk a fesztivált! became a notable audience favorite during the summer broadcast season.
Current Status of Mrs Columbo
The band Mrs Columbo remains a cornerstone of Galambos’s professional life. While the group has experienced lineup changes and intermittent hiatuses throughout its history, Galambos indicates that the band is currently active. She describes the current period of collaboration as the most enjoyable in the group’s tenure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Galambos Dorina’s first major project?
Her first major project was the inaugural season of the Hungarian talent show Megasztár, where she reached the top 12 at age 19.
Has Galambos won any music awards?
Yes, her band Mrs Columbo won the Fonogram Award for Jazz Album of the Year in 2013 for their album (re)makeup.
Is Mrs Columbo still active?
Yes, according to Galambos, the band is currently performing together and enjoying their collaborative process.
Are you a fan of Hungarian music history? Share your favorite memory of the early Megasztár seasons in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on local artists.
Related reading