The reboot of the Dutch celebrity ranking show Ranking the Stars, hosted by Paul de leeuw, is facing immediate criticism following its Saturday premiere on RTL 4.Once a ratings powerhouse known for attracting A-list guests, the revived program is now drawing questions about its casting choices and overall quality, with manny viewers and critics expressing disappointment. The show’s return, spearheaded by producer Peter van der Vorst, arrives as Dutch television navigates a shifting landscape of entertainment options and evolving celebrity culture, prompting a debate over what constitutes primetime entertainment in 2026. Social media reaction has been swift and largely negative, highlighting the stark contrast between the show’s former glory and its current state.
Paul de Leeuw is back with a struggling revival of Ranking the Stars. Once a groundbreaking television staple featuring A-list celebrities, the show’s current lineup has sparked criticism. The question on everyone’s mind: what exactly is going on with this reboot?
It’s a surprising move from Peter van der Vorst, known for good taste, to launch Paul de Leeuw’s seemingly exhausted celebrity show, Ranking the Stars, as primetime entertainment on Saturday nights. Even the host appears to question the decision, as it’s painfully obvious that securing A-list talent has become a major challenge.
A Step Down in Star Power
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The season premiere of Ranking the Stars featured a lineup that raised eyebrows. The upper tier included Koen Kardashian (described as similar to Ferry ‘snuif’ Doedens), Melisa Schaufeli (‘the wife of’), Hassan Slaby (requiring a Wikipedia search for recognition), Rian Gerritsen (an actress who has lost 25 kilos), and the ever-present Bevers – a group known for accepting any offer. This casting choice reflects a broader trend of reality stars and lesser-known personalities filling primetime slots.
Reality star Marjan Strijbosch opened the lower tier, joined by Hendrik Jan Bökkers (described as Angela de Jong’s crush), veteran personality Patty Brard, Sjorleone (a figure reminiscent of Temptation Island contestants), and one Pepijn Schoneveld (?).
Viewers watching RTL 4 reacted with disbelief. “Who are these people?” has been a common refrain on X. Others commented, “It’s the dumping ground for commercial television!”
Sonja likened the show to “The Alleskunner VIPS,” adding, “Can anyone make it through Ranking the Stars for more than five minutes? Desperate ‘celebrities’ who are willing to put their image on TV.”
Antonius stated, “Sjorleone! What a simpleton with the IQ of a banana peel. If you’re just dumb enough, you’ll end up on TV.”
A Nostalgic Disappointment
Gurb felt Paul de Leeuw has fallen from grace. “Ranking the Stars used to be hilarious, but just flip past it now… 😱 What kind of people are on there now?? I’m switching channels immediately.”
Kos remarked, “To broadcast such a pauper program as Ranking the Stars on Saturday primetime. My goodness, what a tragedy.”
Another viewer simply stated, “They’re all unknown stars to me!”
A Focus on Appearances
Many viewers also expressed surprise that the makeup on Ranking the Stars now relies on needles instead of a powder brush:
