RTL: The Voice will “absolutely return” to Dutch television after sex misconduct scandal

RTL's content director Peter van der Vorst confirmed that reality musical competition show The Voice of Holland “will absolutely return” to the Netherlands. The show was indefinitely suspended in January 2022 following serious allegations of sexual misconduct and abuse of power by jury members and The Voice's bandleader, dating back to 2018.

“It will likely take about a year and a half, but we still need to finalize the timeline,” he added. RTL is aiming to re-launch the reality show in 2026.

“Next year would be too soon because we need at least a year to prepare the program. We are currently brainstorming on how to bring The Voice back and refresh the format,” Van der Vorst elaborated. He said the concept needed to be locked down before production can begin.

The internationally sold format was developed by Talpa and is broadcast in the Netherlands on RTL. An extensive criminal investigation was launched into the misconduct. Despite the serious allegations, the case against the bandleader, Jeroen Rietbergen, was dropped due to a lack of evidence. Rietbergen was married to Linda de Mol, the sister of Talpa head John de Mol. He was central to allegations about promising he would help contestants advance in the show if they engaged in sexual activity with him.

John de Mol was widely criticized for simultaneously claiming he has an open-door policy to field complaints about his business operation, while also seeming to place the blame for The Voice scandal on the victims. One of the show's coaches, Ali B., was also named in allegations, as was singer Marco Borsato. Ali B. was recently convicted in a separate sex crimes case.

Victims´ lawyer worried about the show`s comeback

Attorney Sébas Diekstra, representing several alleged victims associated with The Voice, expressed “serious concerns” about the show's return. He stated it should only happen after “a thorough and independent investigation into the misconduct” is conducted. “We have seen that such an investigation has not taken place. The criticism of the investigation that did happen was devastating. Both supporters and critics agreed on that.”

According to Diekstra, an independent investigation should also focus on “the management’s role.” He added that the results should prompt a complete overhaul of the support and aftercare system for contestants, including necessary rules needed to prevent the show environment becoming unsafe for the contestants.

Diekstra continued by noting that many former contestants are still afraid to speak out about their experiences, which means there is no clear understanding of the full extent of the issues within the production. However, he acknowledged that several of his clients view the show as “a beautiful and important concept” for artists.

RTL has promised to approach the show's return carefully. “The Voice remains a very strong international format, and we’re hearing from viewers that they want to see it back. [...] We will carefully evaluate all aspects, including content, coaches, and the team, to ensure a safe and supportive environment for everyone involved in the show, as well as address all other issues related to its return.”