De Slimste Mens 2026: Alle Kandidaten Bekend

The upcoming season of De slimste mens will premiere with a somber note, as singer René Karst, known for hits like Liever te dik in de kist and Atje voor de sfeer, will appear in the first episode. Karst passed away shortly before the completion of filming, and his inclusion was announced by his manager following his funeral.

A Diverse Lineup

Karst will be joined by Maarten van Rossum, a former diplomat who served in Brussels, Washington D.C., and Afghanistan and later advised Minister-President Mark Rutte, and Roxanne Kwant, an influencer with a significant online presence. The season promises a wide range of contestants, with future episodes featuring children’s book author Ted van Lieshout (creator of the Boer Boris series), Buitenhof presenter Maaike Schoon, singer Chris Bauer, criminal defence lawyer Veerle Hammerstein, former presenter Maya Eksteen, and journalist/writer Simon van Teutem.

Additional Contestants and Guest Questioners

Further contestants include referee Shona Shukrula, presenter Frank van Leeuwen, actress Nazmiye Oral, and Freddy Tratlehner (Vjèze Fur from De Jeugd van Tegenwoordig). The “Open deur” round, where well-known figures pose questions to the contestants, will feature singer Froukje and actress Jelka van Houten, among others.

Did You Know? René Karst completed filming for the first episode of De slimste mens shortly before his unexpected passing.

Expert Insight: The inclusion of a recently deceased public figure in a televised competition presents a complex dynamic. It acknowledges Karst’s participation while simultaneously serving as a tribute, potentially drawing a larger audience and prompting reflection on his life, and work.

De slimste mens is scheduled to air daily on KRO-NCRV on NPO 1, beginning Monday, February 23, 2026, at 21:30.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the first contestants appearing on De slimste mens?

René Karst, Maarten van Rossum, and Roxanne Kwant are the first contestants scheduled to appear on De slimste mens.

When will the new season of De slimste mens begin?

The new season of De slimste mens will begin on Monday, February 23, 2026, at 21:30.

Who will be asking questions during the “Open deur” round?

Singer Froukje and actress Jelka van Houten are among those who will be asking questions during the “Open deur” round.

How might the show’s producers balance honoring René Karst’s memory with the competitive nature of the program?