A 20-year-old student has quickly turn into a prominent voice in Belgian media, catching the attention of television personality Gert Verhulst. Mauro Pauwels, a student of political science, has transitioned from a youth city poet to a regular contributor on “De Tafel van Gert,” a popular talk show.
Verhulst was reportedly impressed by Pauwels’ performance on “De afspraak,” another program, and immediately sought to include him on his own show. Pauwels is known for his outspokenness and insightful analysis during his appearances.
“Dat ik Gert Verhulst was opgevallen, doet me echt wel iets,” Pauwels said, expressing his excitement at being noticed by the well-known television host. (Translation: “That Gert Verhulst noticed me really means something to me.”)
Pauwels appears alongside other frequent guests on “De Tafel van Gert,” including Lynn Van den Broeck, Piet Hoebeke, Théo Francken, Eric Goens, and singer Milow. The show, which aired on March 5, 2026, featured discussions on topics ranging from doctors’ visits to press freedom, as well as Milow’s new album, which utilized AI in its creation. The show’s format, featuring a rotating panel of “table jumpers,” has become a notable element of the Belgian entertainment landscape.
The rise of Pauwels reflects a trend of younger voices gaining prominence in Belgian media, offering fresh perspectives on current events and cultural issues.
You can find more information about the show here.
Recent commentary on Verhulst’s show also touched on the impact of the war in the Middle East on air travel, advising passengers to avoid self-canceling flights and wait for airlines to initiate cancellations to ensure they receive appropriate refunds or rebookings.
a separate article highlighted criticism of “De Tafel van Gert,” with one commenter describing it as filled with “toilet humor” and “woke” content, contrasting it with more traditional media. More on that here.
Pauwels’ journey from local poet to national television personality demonstrates his growing ambition and influence within the Belgian media scene. Read more about his story here.
