Chris Van den Abeele: Family, Friends Mourn Loss – Funeral at 1 PM
- Chris Van den Abeele, a prominent journalist with Belgium’s VRT network, has died unexpectedly at the age of 61.
- Van den Abeele was a familiar voice to many, particularly those who began their day – or ended their night – with VRT radio.
- His career with VRT spanned decades, beginning with television work before he transitioned to radio in 2012.
Chris Van den Abeele, a prominent journalist with Belgium’s VRT network, has died unexpectedly at the age of 61. The news, confirmed on , has prompted an outpouring of grief from colleagues, listeners, and public figures across Flanders.
Van den Abeele was a familiar voice to many, particularly those who began their day – or ended their night – with VRT radio. For years, he anchored the overnight news bulletins, becoming a comforting presence during the quiet hours. Listeners consistently praised his warm tone and approachable delivery, describing his voice as a reassuring constant in the darkness. As one listener shared on social media, “When I worked during the night, he was my constant companion.” Another noted, “It was a pleasure to listen to Chris’s voice as a night worker.”
His career with VRT spanned decades, beginning with television work before he transitioned to radio in . Prior to becoming the voice of the overnight news, Van den Abeele established himself as a respected journalist on programs like De Zevende Dag, Extra Time, and Terzake. These roles showcased his analytical skills and commitment to objective reporting, qualities that defined his journalistic approach throughout his career.
However, Van den Abeele’s impact extended beyond the daily news cycle. He gained significant recognition in Flanders for his investigative report, “Getackeld door de maffia” (Tackled by the Mafia). This report exposed the attempts of a figure known as the “gokchinees” (gambling Chinese) to exert influence within Belgian football. The investigation had a substantial impact, bringing a critical social issue to the forefront and solidifying Van den Abeele’s reputation as a fearless and impactful journalist.
Colleagues at VRT NWS described his passing as a profound loss. The network is reportedly in “deep mourning,” recognizing the significant void left by his departure. Cartoonist Marec captured the sentiment with a symbolic illustration of a warm nightlight burning in the VRT building, representing Van den Abeele’s long-standing presence during the late hours.
Van den Abeele himself once reflected on the unique intimacy of nighttime radio, stating, “The idea that 97 percent of people are asleep and only 3 percent are awake and maybe listening… that’s somehow romantic.” This sentiment resonated deeply with his audience, particularly those working through the night – healthcare professionals, truck drivers, and others who found solace in his voice.
The Belgian nursing federation highlighted this connection, stating, “In the quiet hours of the night, when healthcare professionals watch and care, your voice was there. For night nurses and caregivers, that voice was more than background noise. It provided companionship, gave stability, and broke the silence.”
He was known for consistently ending each bulletin with the phrase “Dat was wat nieuws” (That was the news), a simple sign-off that became synonymous with his determined and passionate approach to journalism. The phrase, according to those who knew him, reflected his dedication to his craft and his unwavering commitment to delivering the news.
While details surrounding his death remain limited, the outpouring of tributes underscores the deep connection Van den Abeele forged with his audience and the lasting legacy he leaves behind in Belgian journalism. His passing marks a significant loss for VRT and for the many listeners who relied on his voice to navigate the quiet hours of the night.