paroolSep 2, 2026, 05:33

Maarten van Rossem dismissing overenthusiastic Catherine Keyl's presentation as completely chaotic is great television

The new television program De meestergids features Dutch celebrities competing to deliver the best museum tours, with the first episode taking place at the Rijksmuseum. Despite some initial skepticism regarding the abundance of reality competitions, the show is praised for being a lighthearted and informative look at art, highlighted by insightful performances from contestants like Roelof Hemmen.

Dutch television has seen a massive surge in reality competition programs, ranging from painters and photographers to bakers and pottery makers. The latest addition, De meestergids, features six celebrities competing to be the best museum tour guide. Despite initial skepticism about the premise, the show has proven to be a sympathetic and informative production rather than a frantic talent competition. Participants visit a museum, study an artwork, and present their knowledge to visitors and a jury. The first episode, held at the Rijksmuseum, featured Maarten van Rossem as a juror, whose dry commentary on the presenters added a layer of entertainment. Former news anchor Roelof Hemmen surprised viewers with his engaging presentation on Jan Asselijn's painting The Threatened Swan, ultimately winning the inaugural challenge. While the competitive element is present, the program succeeds in introducing viewers to the national museum's collection in an accessible manner, though some critics wish for more focus on the art itself rather than the participants.

Culture

Read original ↗

Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

Harry Styles honors Liam Payne with unreleased song

Harry Styles performed an unreleased song titled What is Enough during his concert series at Madison Square Garden to honor his late friend and former bandmate Liam Payne. Payne passed away in October 2024, and Styles shared that he wrote the tribute song two years ago.

Amsterdam man (22) throws garden table and post into fire in Floradorp and receives 40 hours of community service

A 22-year-old Amsterdam resident received a community service order and jail time for participating in violent disturbances in the Floradorp neighborhood. The riots, which included arson and attacks on police, were sparked by the local rejection of a request to host New Year's bonfires.

No plans for ADE yet? You can still get tickets for these 10 parties

The annual Amsterdam Dance Event takes place from October 21 to 25, offering a wide array of musical performances across various iconic city venues. Tickets are still available for ten selected events, including performances by artists like DJ Snake, KI/KI, and the duo Adriatique.

Screen time | Facebook film raises painful question: has anything changed at Meta?

Meta continues to face criticism regarding privacy concerns with its wearable technology and its influence on societal polarization. The release of the film The Social Reckoning, based on whistleblower Frances Haugen's experiences, emphasizes that the company's algorithm-driven growth strategies often conflict with user welfare and require systemic cultural change.

Actor and writer Maarten Spanjer dies at age 73

Actor and author Maarten Spanjer has died at the age of 73 following a rapid decline in his health. Known for his roles in the film Spetters and the television program Taxi, he passed away in hospice care surrounded by loved ones.