Viola Holt‘s Relationship with Medium Thomas Woolthuis
Viola Holt, a prominent figure in Dutch society, maintained a close friendship with the renowned medium Thomas Woolthuis during her lifetime, a connection that has drawn renewed attention following her recent passing. This relationship, while seemingly unconventional, was reportedly a source of comfort and guidance for Holt, and has sparked public interest in the intersection of spiritualism and high society in the Netherlands.
Holt and Woolthuis’s friendship spanned several years, developing through mutual acquaintances within the artistic and intellectual circles of Amsterdam. Woolthuis, known for his public demonstrations of mediumship and purported ability to communicate with the deceased, gained significant notoriety in the Netherlands during the early 2020s. Holt, a philanthropist and art collector, was reportedly drawn to Woolthuis’s insights and viewpoint on life and loss. Sources close to Holt indicate she regularly attended woolthuis’s séances and sought his counsel on personal matters.
While the specifics of their interactions remain largely private,a 2024 interview with Woolthuis in De Volkskrant (De volkskrant, 2024) alluded to a “significant connection” with a “respected public figure” who he declined to name, but descriptions strongly suggested Holt. Woolthuis stated, “Ther are individuals who seek understanding beyond the material world, and I am lucky enough to offer a potential pathway to that understanding.”
The Controversy Surrounding Thomas Woolthuis
Thomas Woolthuis is a controversial figure in the Netherlands, with skeptics frequently questioning the authenticity of his abilities. Despite his popularity, he has faced accusations of fraud and manipulation from organizations like the Skeptische Blik (Skeptical view) foundation.
Skeptische Blik has published several reports detailing alleged inconsistencies in Woolthuis’s demonstrations and questioning the methods he employs. (Skeptische Blik, 2023). Thes reports highlight instances where Woolthuis appeared to utilize cold reading techniques and ambiguous language to create the illusion of genuine psychic ability. The foundation has called for greater scrutiny of individuals claiming to possess paranormal abilities, particularly when thay are profiting from their services.
In 2025,the Autoriteit Consument & Markt (ACM),the netherlands Authority for consumers and Markets,received 37 complaints regarding Woolthuis’s practices,primarily concerning misleading advertising and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals. (ACM Annual Report, 2025). While the ACM did not initiate formal legal proceedings, it issued a warning to woolthuis regarding his marketing materials and urged him to ensure transparency in his services.
Viola Holt’s Estate and Potential Involvement of Woolthuis
Following Viola Holt’s death on January 15, 2026, speculation has arisen regarding the potential involvement of Thomas Woolthuis in the handling of her estate. Holt’s will, currently under review by the Amsterdam Probate Court, reportedly contains a provision mentioning Woolthuis, though the exact nature of this provision remains sealed.
According to sources familiar with the probate proceedings, the provision relates to a specific collection of artwork owned by Holt, with Woolthuis possibly designated as an advisor regarding its valuation and sale. The Amsterdam Probate Court has confirmed that the will is currently being examined to ensure its legality and compliance with Dutch inheritance laws. (Amsterdam Probate Court, Press Release, January 22, 2026).
The potential involvement of Woolthuis has raised concerns among some of Holt’s family members, who have reportedly expressed skepticism about his motives and qualifications. They have requested that the court appoint an independent appraiser to assess the value of the artwork, independent of Woolthuis’s input. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for February 10, 2026, to address these concerns.
