Bosnian-Serb actor Stefan de Walle, who has portrayed Sinterklaas in the Dutch children's television program 'Het Sinterklaasjournaal' since 2011, will not continue in the role after fifteen years. His departure was not his own choice but a decision made by the public broadcaster NTR to end the collaboration, according to his manager, as confirmed by multiple sources including Shownieuws. [3] [5] [4]
De Walle expressed deep regret over the decision in a conversation with Shownieuws and in the video podcast 'Het Bankje van Karel'. According to his manager, the actor himself would have liked to continue, describing the situation as 'very sad'. The NTR ended the partnership after 15 years, succeeding Bram van der Vlugt, who held the role for 25 years. [3] [5] [4]
During his tenure, De Walle and co-star Dieuwertje Blok faced significant controversy surrounding the 'Black Pete' (Zwarte Piet) debate. De Walle revealed that the experience included death threats and hostility. However, he clarified that these threats were not the reason for his departure. He hinted at undisclosed behind-the-scenes developments regarding how the situation unfolded, stating he might tell the full story another time. [4] [3]
While De Walle's role in the televised 'Sinterklaasjournaal' ends, he continues to perform as Sinterklaas in theater productions. He is scheduled to appear in a stage performance on December 2. The broadcaster NTR has not yet announced who will succeed him, with the new series set to premiere on November 9. [5]
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- LINDA In 'Waar doen ze het van?' neemt Rutger van Barneveld een videoclip op (en dit is wat dat kost)
- LINDA Wie wordt de nieuwe Sinterklaas? Déze namen komen allemaal voorbij
- LINDA Stefan de Walle koos niet zelf voor vertrek als Sint: 'Erg jammer'
- weekend-online.nl Vertrek Stefan de Walle als Sinterklaas was niet zijn eigen keuze
- shownieuws.nl Vertrek Stefan de Walle als Sinterklaas was niet zijn eigen keuze
