nuAug 31, 2026, 08:29

Final episode of Zomergasten draws 257,000 viewers

The Dutch interview series Zomergasten has concluded its final season with a closing episode that drew 257,000 viewers. The long-running program, which debuted in 1988, is being discontinued by the NPO as a result of budgetary constraints within the public broadcasting system.

The final episode of the Dutch interview program Zomergasten has concluded, drawing 257,000 viewers for its last broadcast. Host Janine Abbring concluded the series with a tribute, including a comprehensive compilation of the 214 guests who appeared on the show since its inception in 1988. Throughout the latest season, notable figures such as Peter Pannekoek and Sigrid Kaag participated, with the season opener featuring Pannekoek reaching the highest audience of 401,000 viewers.

First airing in 1988, the show allowed guests from various professional backgrounds to curate their own television evenings. Over the decades, it was led by various presenters, including Adriaan van Dis and Theo Maassen. The broadcaster VPRO announced the program would end following the NPO's decision to discontinue the current format due to ongoing budget cuts affecting the public broadcasting sector. Meanwhile, the second season of the competing show Bestemming X premiered on RTL 4, attracting 520,000 viewers.

Culture Netherlands

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

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