The Dutch broadcasting landscape is set for a shake-up as popular radio duo Jan-Willem Roodbeen and Jeroen Kijk in de Vegte are preparing to launch a new television program on NPO 1. The indicate, titled ‘Jan-Willem Ruimt Op!’ (Jan-Willem Clears Up!), promises a blend of conversation, music, and humor as the pair reflect on the week’s events. This expansion into television marks a new chapter for the duo, building on their already successful radio presence and coinciding with the approach of their 2,000th broadcast of ‘Jan-Willem Start Op!’ on NPO Radio 2.
The announcement, confirmed by BNNVARA on March 5, 2026, has generated considerable excitement within the Dutch media. ‘Jan-Willem Ruimt Op!’ is slated to premiere on May 1, 2026, at 9:25 PM CET, and will air weekly on Fridays. The program aims to capture the energy of their radio show, incorporating familiar segments like the ‘Dobbelsteen’ (Dice) and ‘Introrally’ for a television audience. Roodbeen expressed his enthusiasm, stating that transitioning from years of morning radio to a Friday night television slot feels like “one substantial party.” RTL.nl reported on the duo’s excitement about the new venture.
From Radio to Television: A Growing Partnership
Jan-Willem Roodbeen and Jeroen Kijk in de Vegte have established themselves as a prominent force in Dutch radio. Their morning show, ‘Jan-Willem Start Op!’ on NPO Radio 2, has consistently topped the ratings charts, earning them two ‘Gouden RadioRing’ awards for the most popular radio program. The show is known for its engaging format, incorporating music, current affairs, and listener interaction. According to BNNVARA, the program has also actively engaged with social issues, launching petitions and raising awareness on topics like energy poverty and the Groningen gas field earthquakes.
Jeroen Kijk in de Vegte brings a wealth of experience to the partnership, having a long and varied career in Dutch broadcasting. He is well-known as the voice of RTL Boulevard since 2005, a popular entertainment news program. As detailed on his Wikipedia page, Kijk in de Vegte’s career began in 1992 with Club Veronica, and he has since worked on numerous radio and television projects, including ‘Eigen Huis & Tuin’ (Own House & Garden) on RTL 4, where he served as the voice-over for over two decades, concluding in 2020. Notably, he was also a witness in the trial following the 2002 assassination of politician Pim Fortuyn, having been present at the radio studio when the shooting occurred.
‘Jan-Willem Ruimt Op!’: What to Expect
The new television show promises to be a lively and engaging end to the week. The format will involve Roodbeen and Kijk in de Vegte reviewing the week’s news and events, accompanied by a house band, guest artists, and a live studio audience. The inclusion of segments like the ‘Dobbelsteen’ and ‘Introrally’ suggests a commitment to maintaining the interactive and playful spirit of their radio show. The ‘Dobbelsteen’ involves a dice roll determining a specific theme or topic for discussion, while the ‘Introrally’ is a fast-paced game identifying song introductions. NU.nl highlights the show’s intention to provide a lighthearted and entertaining recap of the week.
The timing of the television launch is also significant, coinciding with the approach of the 2,000th episode of ‘Jan-Willem Start Op!’ on radio. This milestone underscores the enduring popularity of the duo and their ability to connect with a broad audience. The success of ‘Jan-Willem Start Op!’ has not been without recognition, having secured two ‘Gouden RadioRing’ awards, acknowledging its status as a leading radio program in the Netherlands. However, recent news indicates a potential shift in the Dutch radio awards landscape, with AVROTROS announcing the discontinuation of the ‘RadioRing’ awards due to budget cuts within the NPO.
A Shift in the Dutch Media Landscape
The launch of ‘Jan-Willem Ruimt Op!’ comes at a time of evolving dynamics within the Dutch media industry. Budgetary constraints and shifting audience preferences are prompting broadcasters to explore new formats, and platforms. The move by BNNVARA to expand the Roodbeen and Kijk in de Vegte partnership into television reflects a strategic effort to capitalize on the duo’s established fanbase and create engaging content for a wider audience. The show’s focus on conversation, music, and humor aligns with current trends in entertainment programming, offering a blend of familiar elements and fresh perspectives.
The program’s success will likely depend on its ability to translate the energy and intimacy of their radio show to the television screen. Maintaining the interactive elements and incorporating engaging guest appearances will be crucial in attracting and retaining viewers. The show’s title, ‘Jan-Willem Ruimt Op!’ suggests a playful and informal atmosphere, hinting at a program that doesn’t take itself too seriously. The show is expected to provide a relaxed and entertaining way to conclude the week, offering a welcome respite from the often-serious tone of news and current affairs programming.
The next key date for fans of Jan-Willem Roodbeen and Jeroen Kijk in de Vegte is May 1, 2026, with the premiere of ‘Jan-Willem Ruimt Op!’ on NPO 1. The show promises to be a significant addition to the Dutch television schedule, building on the established success of the duo’s radio program. The 2,000th episode of ‘Jan-Willem Start Op!’ on NPO Radio 2 on May 29, 2026, will also be a landmark event for the pair and their listeners. We encourage readers to share their thoughts on this exciting development and to tune in to see what Roodbeen and Kijk in de Vegte have in store for their television debut.