nuSep 30, 2026, 18:24

Paulien Cornelisse held up a mirror to the Dutch people's use of 'zeg maar'

Paulien Cornelisse, a celebrated Dutch author and comedian known for her astute observations of language and social conventions, has passed away. Despite battling cancer since 2024, she remained active in her professional life, including her role as a juror on De slimste mens, until her recent death.

Paulien Cornelisse, the acclaimed Dutch writer, comedian, and television personality, has passed away at a time when she was still actively participating in public life. Known for her keen observations of language and social habits, Cornelisse authored popular books such as Taal is zeg maar echt mijn ding and the office-themed De verwarde cavia. Her unique ability to capture the quirks of everyday life through humor and linguistic analysis earned her the title of Taalstaatmeester in 2025. In recent years, she gained widespread recognition as a juror on the popular television program De slimste mens. Throughout her career, she also explored her fascination with Japan in the series Tokidoki and co-founded the storytelling podcast Echt Gebeurd. After receiving a cancer diagnosis in 2024, Cornelisse continued her work, appearing on television and preparing for a theatrical tour titled Waar was ik gebleven. Despite her health challenges, she maintained a public presence, expressing joy at being involved in projects until the very end. She is survived by her partner, writer Chris Bajema, and her family.

Culture Netherlands

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

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