nuNov 12, 2026, 18:00

Belgian De Slimste Mens contestant withdraws following allegations

A contestant on the Belgian show De Slimste Mens ter Wereld has withdrawn from the competition after facing three reports of potential sexual misconduct. The participant denied the allegations and stated he is cooperating with an investigation by the East Flanders public prosecutor's office.

Mehdi, a contestant on the Belgian television show De Slimste Mens ter Wereld, has announced his withdrawal from the competition following serious allegations. The East Flanders public prosecutor's office confirmed on Wednesday that it has launched an investigation into the contestant after receiving three reports of potential sexual misconduct. Television broadcaster Play, which produces the program, also initiated its own internal investigation into the matter.

In an Instagram statement, Mehdi expressed his desire to shield the show from negative publicity and stated he has full confidence that the ongoing investigation will clear his name. His legal representatives have denied the allegations brought against him. During Wednesday's broadcast, the network included a disclaimer noting that the episode was recorded several weeks prior to the allegations coming to light. The show, which is a popular franchise in the Netherlands and Belgium, continues to be closely monitored as legal proceedings develop.

Culture Netherlands

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

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