Studio Brussel Hosts Apologize After Controversial Video Depicts Destruction of Religious Imagery
Studio Brussel presenters Eva De Roo and Dries Lenaerts have issued an apology after a video surfaced showing them damaging religious statues, sparking widespread criticism. The incident has ignited a debate about the boundaries of satire and respect for religious symbols.
The video, which circulated earlier this month, depicted the pair destroying a statue of the Virgin Mary. The presenters acknowledged the backlash, stating they “underestimated how sensitive religious symbols can be.”
“We would make different choices now,” the presenters said, according to VRT. The apology comes after significant public outcry and accusations of disrespect towards the Catholic faith.
De Roo and Lenaerts took over the morning show on Studio Brussel in September 2025, replacing Fien Germijns and Thibault Christiaensen, who had hosted the program for four years. Studio Brussel announced the novel duo in June 2025, highlighting their aim to deliver a mix of music, energy, and connection with listeners.
Lenaerts, 24, joined Studio Brussel nearly two years ago, previously hosting the show ‘Dries op een rij’ and the request program ‘Hallo met Studio Brussel’. De Roo has been a fixture at the radio station since 2013. Radiodays Europe notes that Lenaerts began his career behind the scenes as a radio editor before moving to on-air roles.
The incident underscores the challenges facing media personalities as they navigate the line between provocative content and potentially offensive material. The controversy has prompted a wider conversation about the role of satire and the importance of cultural sensitivity in public discourse.
“This is no longer satire,” one commenter wrote, as reported by HLN, reflecting the strong reactions to the video.
Several news outlets, including Nieuwsblad and GVA, reported on the widespread disappointment and anger expressed by listeners following the release of the video.
