The upcoming season of the popular Dutch home renovation show Kopen Zonder Kijken (Buying Without Looking) will feature a rotating cast of eleven presenters stepping in for mainstay Martijn Krabbé, who is continuing his battle with stage IV lung cancer. While Krabbé won’t be physically present on location, he will remain involved as the voice-over artist for the series, a role he finds significantly less demanding.
Krabbé, who revealed his diagnosis a year ago, shared an update on his condition with RTL Boulevard, stating, “It’s different. Every breath is a cliffhanger. But it’s going well.” He expressed relief at being able to contribute to the show in a capacity that doesn’t require extensive travel. “I’m glad I don’t have to drive to all those places in the Netherlands anymore,” he said, referencing the logistical demands of filming across the country. “Driving to Maastricht, Heerlen, Groningen, and so on. I did enjoy it, I have to say, but I’m so glad I don’t have to do that anymore.”
The decision to bring in a series of guest presenters – including Chantal Janzen, Ruben Nicolai, Beau van Erven Dorens, Marieke Elsinga, Jamai Loman, Miljuschka Witzenhausen, Daphne Bunskoek, Leonie ter Braak, Caroline Tensen, Monica Geuze, and Buddy Vedder – was a deliberate one. Krabbé explained that he consciously maintained the consistency of the voice-over to allow each presenter to bring their own unique style to the show. “I consciously chose to make the voice-over exactly the same every time, so that you give the presenter of the day the opportunity to present it in their own way,” he stated.
Despite his health challenges, Krabbé remains connected to the show that has been a fixture on Dutch television for nearly a decade. He admits to preferring the voice-over role, finding it “easier” than being on camera. “If you’re on camera, it’s very difficult. If you’re a voice-over, it’s actually easier,” he explained. This preference highlights the physical and emotional toll that presenting the show had taken, even before his diagnosis.
Kopen Zonder Kijken, which premiered in , has proven remarkably resilient, maintaining its popularity even with the change in on-screen talent. Krabbé acknowledged this, noting, “The strange thing is that it’s still so popular. It was becoming a bit predictable for me.” He believes the rotating presenters have injected new energy into the format.
The show’s premise revolves around helping couples find their dream homes without actually seeing them beforehand, relying instead on their wish lists and the expertise of a team of real estate agents and interior designers. While the show’s format remains consistent, the involvement of new presenters is expected to bring fresh perspectives and dynamics to the renovation process. Alex van Keulen, a real estate agent featured on the show, noted the challenges of assisting buyers with limited budgets, stating that helping those with significant financial constraints can be particularly difficult.
Beau van Erven Dorens, one of the guest presenters, has a long and varied career in Dutch television, encompassing roles as a presenter, actor, and voice actor. He is known for hosting programs such as Deal or No Deal and RTL Boulevard, and has also appeared in several television series, including Gooische vrouwen and Dokter Tinus. His participation in Kopen Zonder Kijken adds another layer to his already extensive resume.
The new season of Kopen Zonder Kijken airs every Monday at 8:30 PM on RTL 4. The show’s continued success, even amidst Krabbé’s health struggles and the introduction of new presenters, speaks to its enduring appeal and the strength of its core concept. Krabbé’s continued involvement, albeit in a different capacity, ensures that the show retains a familiar element for its loyal viewers.
The shift in presenting duties also allows Krabbé to focus on his health and well-being, while still contributing to a program he clearly cares about. His willingness to embrace a less physically demanding role demonstrates a pragmatic approach to his situation and a commitment to continuing his work in the entertainment industry.
