nuSep 29, 2026, 07:28

Johan Derksen on Estavana Polman's departure from VI: 'She is the victim'

Johan Derksen has commented on the departure of Estavana Polman from the television program Vandaag Inside, expressing regret over how the situation was handled. While Polman struggled to contribute to topics outside of her personal life and sports background, Derksen argued she deserved more time and coaching to succeed.

Johan Derksen expressed sympathy for former handball player Estavana Polman following the announcement that her role as a monthly guest on the talk show Vandaag Inside has ended. Derksen stated that he felt it was unfair that Polman, who is currently pregnant, is now perceived as the victim in the situation. He admitted that while she was articulate regarding handball and her personal life with former football player Rafael van der Vaart, she struggled to contribute to broader discussions on the program.

Derksen suggested that the production team failed by not allowing Polman to complete a six-month trial period or providing her with sufficient coaching to adapt to the show's format. The decision to terminate the partnership was mutual after both the program makers and Polman expressed doubts about her involvement. This development follows previous criticism regarding her contributions from fellow cast member René van der Gijp, officially ending her brief tenure on the show.

Culture Netherlands

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

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