The Dutch television industry is grappling with another wave of allegations concerning toxic work environments, this time centered around the popular crime drama Sleepers. Following the abrupt departure of actor Teun Kuilboer, who played Willem Keizer, a chorus of voices – including fellow cast member Sinem Kavus – are now speaking out about manipulative practices and a lack of healthy structures on set.
Kuilboer announced his immediate exit via Instagram, citing an “untenable situation” on the workplace that forced him to prioritize his own well-being. His departure sparked a wider conversation, quickly gaining momentum as Kavus publicly expressed her shame for previously defending what she had considered a “dream job.” “I am ashamed that I defended my ‘dream job’ for so long,” Kavus stated, according to reports. “The industry lacks healthy work structures.”
The allegations echo Kuilboer’s claims of manipulation and gaslighting, painting a picture of a production environment where boundaries were blurred and psychological safety was compromised. While specific details of the alleged misconduct remain largely undisclosed, the growing number of individuals coming forward suggests a systemic issue rather than isolated incidents.
Sleepers, which premiered in , follows a corrupt police officer caught between his family and a criminal organization. The series, created by Simon de Waal and Robert de Hoog, has garnered a 7.7/10 rating on IMDb and boasts a substantial viewership, making the allegations particularly impactful. The cast also includes Robert de Hoog, Lineke Rijxman, and Marieke Heebink.
The current situation is prompting a formal investigation by Videoland, the streaming service that broadcasts Sleepers. The company has yet to release a detailed statement outlining the scope of the investigation or the steps it will take to address the concerns raised. However, the swift response indicates an acknowledgement of the seriousness of the accusations.
This isn’t an isolated incident within Dutch television. Reports indicate a pattern of problematic behavior across various productions. A recent article in De Telegraaf highlighted a series of issues plaguing the industry, drawing parallels between the Sleepers situation and past controversies. The article points to a broader cultural problem within the Dutch TV landscape, where a lack of oversight and accountability allows toxic dynamics to flourish.
Maryam Hassouni, another actress involved with Sleepers, has also publicly condemned the practice of gaslighting within the film world. Her statement adds further weight to the growing narrative of a deeply ingrained problem. Producers are reportedly attempting to re-engage with Kuilboer, but his future with the series remains uncertain.
The unfolding drama on the set of Sleepers arrives at a time of increased scrutiny surrounding workplace safety and ethical conduct in the entertainment industry globally. The revelations are likely to fuel ongoing conversations about the need for stronger protections for actors and crew members, particularly those working on high-pressure productions.
The history of film and television is unfortunately punctuated by accidents and unsafe working conditions. According to a Wikipedia entry on film and television accidents, there were 37 deaths related to stunts between and , with 24 involving helicopters. More recently, between and , the Associated Press documented at least 194 serious accidents and 43 deaths on American sets. These statistics underscore the inherent risks associated with the industry, but the allegations surrounding Sleepers point to a different kind of danger – one rooted in psychological manipulation and a disregard for the well-being of those involved.
The case also evokes historical precedents of on-set tragedies. As early as , a cycle builder named Wilhelm Valdemar Zeitz was fatally struck by a train while filming a short film, highlighting the dangers of early filmmaking. In , a camera operator drowned while attempting to rescue an actress during a river scene, receiving a posthumous Carnegie Hero Award for his bravery. These incidents, while stemming from physical risks, demonstrate a long-standing pattern of prioritizing production over safety.
The situation with Sleepers is prompting calls for greater accountability and a fundamental shift in industry culture. The hope is that these recent revelations will serve as a catalyst for meaningful change, leading to safer, more respectful, and more sustainable working conditions for all those involved in the creation of television, and film.
The question now is whether Videoland’s investigation will lead to concrete action and whether the industry as a whole will address the systemic issues that have allowed such environments to persist. The outcome will undoubtedly be closely watched by actors, crew members, and viewers alike.
