Verlinde Takes teh Reins: A New Face at the ‘Vandaag Inside’ Table
Veteran entertainment journalist Albert Verlinde (63) will be stepping in as the regular Wednesday night replacement for René van der Gijp (63) on the popular talk show ’Vandaag Inside’. This confirmation comes from Talpa, following reports from De Telegraaf and the AD.
The shift comes as part of the recent contract negotiations between the ‘VI’ trio and Talpa. René successfully negotiated Wednesdays off,creating an opening at the table. The show’s producers have been actively searching for a suitable replacement, and Verlinde has now been chosen to fill the role.
Verlinde is no stranger to the ‘Vandaag Inside’ set, frequently appearing as a fourth guest.This rotating guest spot has seen a variety of personalities, including Olcay Gulsen, Rutger Castricum, and Nico Dijkshoorn.
Interestingly, another familiar face, Hans Kraay jr., recently revealed that he had also been approached to become a permanent fixture on the show. “it was flattering to be asked,” Kraay jr. shared on ‘De Oranjewinter’. “However, I’m incredibly content with my current position at ESPN, so I declined the offer.”
Johan Derksen, another member of the ‘VI’ trio, recently shared his thoughts on René’s Wednesday absence with RTL Boulevard.
“Verlinde at the VI Table: A Winning Move or a Missed Opportunity?”
Today we’re joined by former professional footballer and celebrated football pundit, Ruud Gullit, to discuss the recent shakeup at the “VI” table.As you may know, Albert Verlinde will be stepping in as the regular Wednesday night replacement for René van der Gijp, who negotiated Wednesdays off in his contract renegotiation.
Ruud, what are your initial thoughts on this change?
Ruud Gullit: Well, Albert is a respected journalist, no doubt about that. He’s got plenty of experience and knows his way around a sports discussion. But “Vandaag Inside” thrives on that raw, sometimes controversial energy, which René brings in spades. I’m curious to see if Albert can capture that same spark.
interesting point. Do you think Verlinde can maintain the show’s edge while bringing his own unique perspective?
Ruud Gullit: That’s the million-dollar question, isn’t it? Verlinde is more measured in his approach, a bit more diplomatic, which could be refreshing. But “VI” viewers love the unpredictable, the unfiltered opinions. Its what makes the show so engaging.If Verlinde tries to be a carbon copy of René, it might fall flat. He needs to find his own groove, his own voice, while still respecting the show’s dynamic.
We also know hans Kraay Jr. was approached for the role but declined.do you think he would have been a better fit?
Ruud Gullit: Hans is a fantastic analyst, very learned, and he’s not afraid to speak his mind. he’d definitely bring the football expertise to the table. But I think his style is different from René’s and perhaps a bit too measured for “VI”.
It seems like the producers were looking for someone with that blend of personality and insight. Do you think Verlinde can deliver?
Ruud Gullit: Only time will tell, won’t it? It’s a bold move by the producers, and it’s going to be interesting to see how it plays out. I think Verlinde needs to be himself, be authentic, and not try to be something he’s not. If he can do that, he might just surprise us all.
What do you think, readers? Are you excited about Verlinde joining the “VI” table? do you think he’ll be able to fill René’s shoes? Share your thoughts in the comments below!