Beloved Dutch Actress Esther Roord, Known for ‘Kees & Co,’ Dies at 61
Esther Roord, a popular Dutch actress best known for her role as neighbor Sonja Wegeman in the beloved comedy series Kees & Co, has died at the age of 61. The news of her passing on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and fans alike. Roord’s health had been declining in recent years.
Her manager confirmed the news to AD.nl, following initial reports from De Telegraaf. Roord passed away in her hometown of Amsterdam.
Roord rose to prominence with her portrayal of Sonja, the friendly neighbor in Kees & Co, which aired from 1997 to 2006 and remains a staple of Dutch television through reruns. The series captured the hearts of audiences with its relatable characters and humorous storylines, cementing Roord’s place in Dutch pop culture.
Beyond Kees & Co, Roord enjoyed a diverse career in theater and television. She appeared alongside Jon van Eerd in the 2006-2007 theater production of Dubbel Op, which was later broadcast on Omroep MAX. RTL Boulevard reports that Van Eerd has publicly shared his grief, describing Roord as a “dear friend.”
“Esther and her son Jip were dear friends for years. We experienced a lot together, both through difficult times and many high points,” Van Eerd said. “She will always be in the hearts of my husband and me. I accept the peace that her sick body has now found.”
Roord also had roles in commercials for Philadelphia cream cheese and McDonald’s and was involved in the musical Piaf de Musical in 2008-2009, winning the John Kraaijkamp Musical Award for Best Supporting Actress in a Small Musical for her performance as Momone. According to her Wikipedia page, she continued to perform on stage in productions like Allo Allo! and Zadelpijn and Ander Damesleed.
The passing of Esther Roord marks a loss for the Dutch entertainment industry, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and memorable performances. She was born on January 25, 1965, in Bussum.
