Beloved Dutch Broadcaster Koos Postema Dies at 93
Koos Postema, a prominent figure in Dutch radio and television, has died at the age of 93. A family spokesperson announced his passing on Sunday, February 22, 2026, stating he died of natural causes on Saturday, February 21, 2026, surrounded by his daughters, Judith and Ingrid.
Postema’s career spanned decades, beginning with the public broadcaster VARA, where he hosted the program Klasgenoten. He later continued the present on Veronica and RTL 4 and also contributed to NOS, serving as a commentator for the 1980 inauguration of Queen Beatrix. He was also a familiar voice on radio programs Langs de Lijn and Radio Tour de France.
In 1971, Postema received the Silver Nipkow Disc for his VARA program Een klein uur. Twenty years later, he was appointed a Knight in the Order of Orange-Nassau. In 2006, the city of Hilversum honored him by naming a street after him: Koos Postemalaan.
Known for his storytelling and humor, Postema was a recognizable face in the Dutch broadcasting world. Colleagues remember him as a warm and knowledgeable presence. Margot Bleeker, a producer who worked with Postema extensively, described him as someone who quickly put colleagues at ease and possessed a wealth of knowledge, always arriving at the newsroom well-informed.
Television critic Angela de Jong described Postema as “one of the last living icons of a generation that made television what It’s today.”
Beyond his professional achievements, Postema was also known for his colorful anecdotes. He once famously claimed to have driven away in the wrong Volvo – one belonging to the police. As reported by De Telegraaf, this story exemplifies his quirky spirit.
A private funeral will be held for Postema, according to his family, who described him as a “passionate radio and television maker.” The news of his death has prompted an outpouring of grief and remembrance from across the media landscape and the political world, with many sharing their fond memories of the beloved broadcaster. Rijnmond reports that many are remembering him as a sharp and humane figure.
The passing of Koos Postema marks the end of an era in Dutch broadcasting, leaving behind a legacy of engaging entertainment and a wealth of cherished memories for generations of viewers and listeners.
