Helene Hendriks Still SBS6’s Biggest Star, but “Oranje Zondag” Disappoints
Helene Hendriks remains the top female star of SBS6, but her new show Oranje Zondag is struggling. The program is hard to watch, and the choice of Rutger Castricum as her permanent sidekick seems like a mistake. Her chemistry with Jack van Gelder is much better. Even the men from Vandaag Inside are now joining the wave of criticism.
René van der Gijp pointed out the poor quality of Oranje Zomer in last night’s episode:
“What a terrible show Helene had yesterday. That first half-hour was completely pointless. It was really bad.”
Johan Derksen added:
“You’re not supposed to just sit there and laugh at everything for an hour straight. It was unbearable. Jack van Gelder stood out because at least he sometimes says controversial things that lead to real discussions.”
The rest of the panel, including a lawyer no one knew, just giggled along. Wilfred tried to defend Helene, but Johan was firm:
“The problem is that it’s been bad for three episodes in a row. The atmosphere was cheerful, sure, but it didn’t go anywhere.”
René also criticized Rutger Castricum, saying:
“Rutger takes his role too seriously. He thinks he has to carry the show, but he shouldn’t. He’s too dominant. Just sit back, join in with the others, and don’t act like you’re the main attraction.”
TV ratings expert Tina Nijkamp suggests Helene should continue with Jack van Gelder instead. In her Tina’s TV Update podcast, she said:
“Jack really adds something extra to the show. He brings atmosphere.”
However, she also warned:
“They need to be careful that the format doesn’t become too much like Ladies Night—just endless chatter.”
