Dutch actors who were born in 1937
Here are 11 famous actors from Netherlands were born in 1937:
Dolf de Vries
Dolf de Vries (July 11, 1937 The Hague-) is a Dutch actor.
Dolf de Vries studied economics and was also a professional soccer player before starting his acting career in 1964. He has appeared in several Dutch films, TV shows, and theatre productions, and he is known for his versatile acting skills. Some of his notable performances include his roles in the TV series "Sil de Strandjutter" and the films "Zwarte Tulp" and "Alles Is Familie". In addition to his acting career, Dolf de Vries has also written screenplays and directed several theater productions. He has won numerous awards throughout his career, including the Best Actor Award at the Tokyo International Film Festival for his role in "De Weg".
Dolf de Vries has had a long and successful career in the entertainment industry, spanning over five decades. He has acted in more than 70 films, 60 TV series, and numerous theater productions. In addition to his acting career, Dolf de Vries has also made a name for himself as a director and writer. He has directed several theater productions, including "King Lear" and "The Caretaker", and has written screenplays for films like "Tiro" (1979) and "Het Meisje Met Het Rode Haar" (1981).
Born in The Hague, Netherlands, Dolf de Vries initially pursued a career in soccer before turning to acting. His first major acting role came in the film "Dakota" (1974), followed by a string of critically acclaimed performances in films such as "De Inbreker" (1972) and "Een Vrouw Tussen Hond En Wolf" (1979). He also gained popularity for his role as Sil de Strandjutter in the popular TV series "Sil de Strandjutter" (1976-1981).
Dolf de Vries has been awarded several prestigious awards throughout his career. In addition to the Best Actor Award at the Tokyo International Film Festival, he has also won the Golden Calf for Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the Netherlands Film Festival for his performance in "Zwarte Tulp" (2015). In 2019, he was awarded the Order of the Netherlands Lion, a prestigious honor recognizing individuals for their exceptional contributions to Dutch society.
Dolf de Vries has also made appearances in several international films, including "Soldaat van Oranje" (1977) and "The Fourth Man" (1983). He has worked with notable directors such as Paul Verhoeven and Fons Rademakers. In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, Dolf de Vries has also been involved in charity work. He is a longtime supporter of the Dutch charity organization War Child, which focuses on helping children affected by war around the world. At the age of 84, Dolf de Vries shows no signs of slowing down and remains active in the entertainment industry. He continues to inspire younger generations of actors and filmmakers with his talent and dedication to his craft.
Cornelis Vreeswijk
Cornelis Vreeswijk (August 8, 1937 IJmuiden-November 12, 1987 Södermalm) also known as Cornelius Vreswijk, Cornelius Vreeswijk, Cornelis Vreswijk, Cornelis Freeswijk or Cornelis Wreeswijk was a Dutch musician, songwriter, singer, poet, actor and author. His child is called Jack Vreeswijk.
He is best known for his work in Sweden, where he gained widespread popularity as a troubadour, writing and performing songs with a mix of Swedish, English, and Dutch lyrics. His music often dealt with themes of social justice, politics, and everyday life, and he is considered one of the most influential musicians in Swedish history. In addition to his music career, Vreeswijk also appeared in several films and television shows, and published several books of poetry and prose. Despite his success in Sweden, Vreeswijk never forgot his Dutch roots and continued to perform and record Dutch-language music throughout his career. He passed away in 1987 at the age of 50, but his legacy and impact on Swedish culture live on to this day.
Vreeswijk was born in the Netherlands and moved with his family to Sweden at a young age. He initially struggled to find success in the Swedish music scene, but eventually gained popularity with his critically acclaimed 1964 debut album "Ballader och oförskämdheter" (Ballads and Impertinences). His music was heavily influenced by American folk and blues music, and he often covered songs by iconic musicians like Woody Guthrie and Leadbelly. Vreeswijk's passionate performances and socially conscious lyrics resonated with audiences, and he continued to release music throughout the 1970s and 1980s.
Despite his success, Vreeswijk was a controversial figure in Sweden due to his sometimes explicit lyrics and controversial opinions on topics like drug use and communism. Nevertheless, he remained a beloved figure among his fans, and his music continues to be celebrated and performed by artists across Sweden.
In addition to his music career, Vreeswijk was a respected author and poet, publishing several books including the autobiographical "Cornelis Vreeswijks ABC" and the poetry collection "Turistens klagan" (The Tourist's Lament). He also pursued an acting career, appearing in several Swedish films and television shows.
Today, Vreeswijk is remembered as one of Sweden's greatest cultural icons, and his music and legacy continue to inspire generations of musicians and fans.
Vreeswijk's influence can be heard in the work of countless artists in Sweden and beyond, and his songs have been covered by a wide range of musicians, including Lars Winnerbäck, Lena Nyman, and Cornelis Vreeswijk Jr. He was posthumously awarded the Svenska Dagbladet Gold Medal for his contributions to Swedish culture and music.In addition to his artistic work, Vreeswijk was also an activist who fought for social justice, civil rights, and environmentalism. He supported causes such as the anti-war movement, and was an outspoken critic of apartheid and nuclear power. Vreeswijk's commitment to these issues can be heard in his music, which often challenged authority and advocated for marginalized communities.Despite his untimely death, Cornelis Vreeswijk remains a beloved figure in Swedish culture, and his impact on music and society is still felt today.
Wannes Van de Velde
Wannes Van de Velde (April 29, 1937 Antwerp-November 10, 2008 Antwerp) a.k.a. Van de Velde, Wannes or Willy Cecile Johannes Van de Velde was a Dutch singer, actor, composer, musician and poet.
Van de Velde was born in Antwerp, Belgium and was known for his folk and blues-inspired music. He often sang in Antwerp dialect and his songs were deeply rooted in Belgian culture and history. His most popular songs include "Ik Wil Deze Nacht in de Straten Verdwalen," "Mijn Mansarde," and "De Brug van Willebroek."
In addition to his music career, Van de Velde also acted on stage and in film. He starred in several productions of the Royal Flemish Theatre and appeared in the film "Mira" in 1971.
During his lifetime, Van de Velde received many awards for his contributions to Belgian culture, including the Golden Sabam Award and the Grand Prize of the City of Antwerp. He is considered one of the most important figures in Flemish culture and his music continues to be loved by many.
Van de Velde began his music career in the early 1960s playing in small music clubs in Antwerp. He was heavily influenced by American blues and folk music, and his uncompromising style quickly earned him a devoted following.In the years that followed, he released several successful albums and toured extensively throughout Belgium and the Netherlands.Van de Velde was also an accomplished poet, and many of his songs were inspired by his poetry. He often used his music to express his political views and was an outspoken critic of the Flemish nationalist movement.In addition to his music and acting career, Van de Velde was also a visual artist and writer. He wrote several books and articles on the history of Flemish culture and was an active member of several cultural organizations throughout his life.
Despite his extensive contributions to Belgian culture, Van de Velde never lost touch with his working-class roots. He grew up in a poor neighborhood in Antwerp and often wrote about the struggles of everyday people in his music and poetry. He was a champion of the Antwerp dialect and even helped to create a dictionary of the language.
Van de Velde's music has been covered by many other artists over the years, and his influence can be heard in the work of many Belgian musicians today. He died in Antwerp in 2008 at the age of 71, leaving behind a rich legacy of music, poetry, and activism that continues to inspire people in Belgium and beyond.
Frits Lambrechts
Frits Lambrechts (March 24, 1937 Amsterdam-) a.k.a. Lambrechts, Frits, Fredericus Amos Lambert or Fredericus Amos Lambrechts is a Dutch actor and musician.
He is known for his roles in Dutch films and television shows such as "Gooische Vrouwen," "Baantjer" and "Flikken Maastricht." Lambrechts began his entertainment career as a musician, playing in various bands and orchestras throughout the 1960s and 1970s. In the 1980s, he transitioned into acting, and has since become a popular and respected actor in the Netherlands. Lambrechts is also a voice actor, having provided the Dutch voice for characters in films such as "The Lion King" and "Finding Nemo." He was awarded the Order of Orange-Nassau, a Dutch royal honor, in 2014 for his contributions to the arts.
In addition to his work as an actor and musician, Frits Lambrechts is also an accomplished writer. He has published several books, including a memoir titled "Het Limburgse Buutreednerlied." The book chronicled his experiences growing up in Limburg, a region in the southern part of the Netherlands, and his early career as a musician. Lambrechts has also been involved in various charitable and philanthropic causes, particularly in the areas of children's education and the arts. He has served as an ambassador for the Dutch charity War Child, which helps children in conflict-affected areas, and has been involved in numerous fundraising campaigns for arts and cultural organizations in the Netherlands. Despite his many achievements, Lambrechts remains humble and grounded, often remarking in interviews that he feels incredibly fortunate to have had such a fulfilling career in the entertainment industry.
Throughout his career, Frits Lambrechts has received several nominations for his work as an actor, including a nomination for the Golden Calf Award for Best Supporting Actor in 2001 for his role in the film "The Discovery of Heaven." He has also won several awards for his contributions to theater, including the John Kraaijkamp Musical Award for Best Supporting Actor in 2002 for his performance in the musical "Sweet Charity." In addition to his work in film, television, and theater, Lambrechts has also appeared on Dutch radio programs and has released several albums of his own music. His music has been well received, and he has been praised for his smooth singing voice and musical skills.
In recent years, Lambrechts has continued to work in the entertainment industry, appearing in popular Dutch television shows such as "De Luizenmoeder" and "Mocro Maffia." He has also expanded his writing career, publishing several works of fiction and poetry. Despite his busy schedule, Lambrechts remains committed to giving back to his community, and continues to be involved in charitable and philanthropic causes. He is considered one of the most beloved and respected entertainers in the Netherlands, and his contributions to Dutch culture and the arts have been widely celebrated.
Jules Croiset
Jules Croiset (October 9, 1937 Deventer-) also known as Julien Gustave Croiset is a Dutch actor. He has two children, Niels Croiset and Vincent Croiset.
Croiset started his acting career in 1960s and has since then appeared in numerous films and television series. Some of his notable works include "Van de koele meren des doods" (1982), "Merijntje Gijzen's Jeugd" (1974), and "Wilhelmina" (2001). He has also worked in theater productions and received critical acclaim for his roles in plays such as "King Lear" and "A Streetcar Named Desire". Croiset has won several awards throughout his career, including the Theo d'Or for best actor in a leading role. In addition to his acting career, Croiset is known for his activism in social and political issues. He actively supports the Dutch Green Party and campaigns for human rights and animal welfare.
Croiset was born in Deventer, Netherlands, and grew up in a family of artists. His father was a painter and his mother was a sculptor. His interest in acting sparked while he was studying at the Amsterdam School of Dramatic Arts, where he participated in several theatrical productions. Croiset also became interested in politics during his college years and participated in various student movements.
In the 1960s, Croiset started his professional acting career with small roles in Dutch films and television series. However, it was his role in "Van de koele meren des doods" that brought him international recognition, and he established himself as a leading actor in Dutch cinema.
Croiset's passion for theater led him to perform in several plays, both in Dutch and English. He has worked with renowned theater directors, such as Ivo van Hove and Johan Simons. His portrayal of King Lear in 1998 garnered him widespread critical acclaim, and he won the Theo d'Or award for best actor in a leading role.
Apart from his acting career, Croiset is also known for his activism. He campaigns for animal rights, and he even founded his animal shelter in 1977. He is also a staunch supporter of human rights and has openly spoken about issues such as refugees, racism, and discrimination. In 2003, Croiset was awarded the Dutch Order of the Lion for his contributions to society.
Croiset's passion for activism has also extended to his support for the Dutch Green Party, for which he has campaigned and donated. He has also been vocal about environmental issues and the need for sustainable practices. In addition to his activism, Croiset has also taught acting at the Maastricht Academy of Dramatic Arts, passing on his knowledge and expertise to future generations of actors. Despite being retired from acting, Croiset remains an influential figure in Dutch culture and society, and continues to support causes that he is passionate about.
Will Van Selst
Will Van Selst (February 7, 1937 Amsterdam-February 23, 2009 Haarlem) a.k.a. Wil van Selst was a Dutch actor.
He began his acting career in the 1960s, and quickly became a household name in the Netherlands. Van Selst was best known for his roles in television dramas and films, but he also performed on stage. His most notable performances include his role in the film "Turks Fruit" (Turkish Delight) and the play "Op Hoop van Zegen" (In Hope of Blessing).
In addition to acting, Van Selst was also a voice actor, lending his voice to various animated films including Disney's "Lady and the Tramp" in Dutch. He was awarded the Silver Carnation for his contribution to Dutch culture and the arts in 1994.
Van Selst passed away in 2009 at the age of 72 in Haarlem, Netherlands.
During his career, Van Selst acted in over 70 films and television series, including the popular Dutch TV drama "Baantjer" and the film "Max Havelaar". His performances were known for their authenticity and depth, and he was praised for his ability to portray complex characters with ease.
Van Selst's talent extended beyond acting, as he was also a talented writer and composer. He wrote several television scripts and composed music for television and theater productions. In addition, he was a voice coach and taught theater and drama at several educational institutions.
Outside of his professional life, Van Selst was known for his love of sailing and was often spotted on his boat in the North Sea. He was married to actress Janine van Elzakker and the couple had two children together.
Van Selst's contributions to Dutch culture were recognized not only through his Silver Carnation award but also through a statue of him that was erected in his hometown of Haarlem in 2011.
Van Selst was born in Amsterdam in 1937 and grew up in a family of actors. His parents and siblings were all involved in the entertainment industry. Despite his family's background, Van Selst initially studied medicine at the University of Amsterdam. However, he soon realized his true passion lay in acting and he left medical school to pursue his dream.
Van Selst's first major breakthrough came in the 1960s when he starred in the popular Dutch television series "De Kleine Waarheid" (The Little Truth). The show was a huge success and it established Van Selst as a leading actor in the Netherlands.
Throughout his career, Van Selst was highly regarded for his commitment to his craft. He was known for his intense preparation and research, and he often went to great lengths to accurately portray the characters he played. His dedication to his work earned him the respect and admiration of his peers and fans alike.
Van Selst's legacy continues to be felt in the Dutch entertainment industry. He is remembered as one of the country's most talented and versatile actors, and his contributions to Dutch culture and the arts will not be forgotten.
Lodewijk De Boer
Lodewijk De Boer (February 11, 1937 Amsterdam-June 4, 2004 Amsterdam) a.k.a. Lodewijk or Lodewyk de Boer was a Dutch screenwriter, actor and film score composer.
De Boer is best known for his work as a screenwriter and playwright, having written numerous plays, television series and films throughout his career. One of his most well-known works as a playwright is the play "Maria Stuart", which was first performed in 1971 and met with critical acclaim.
As an actor, De Boer made several appearances in Dutch films and television shows, including "Max Havelaar" and "Silent Waters". He also worked as a film score composer, creating music for various Dutch films and television programs.
De Boer was awarded the Dutch "P.C. Hooft Prize" in 1992, one of the most prestigious literary awards in the Netherlands, for his significant contribution to Dutch literature. He passed away on June 4, 2004 in Amsterdam at the age of 67.
In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, De Boer was also a professor of playwriting and screenwriting at the University of Amsterdam. He was known for his dedication to teaching and mentoring young writers, and several of his students went on to have successful careers in the industry. Throughout his lifetime, De Boer was a vocal advocate for freedom of speech and creativity, and was involved in various political and social causes. He was also an active member of the Dutch literary community, and served on the board of several literary organizations. Today, De Boer is remembered as one of the most influential and innovative Dutch writers of the 20th Century.
De Boer started his career as a writer and musician in the early 1960s and quickly became part of the avant-garde movement in Amsterdam. His early work was characterized by its experimentation with form and structure, and its emphasis on political and social themes. His plays and screenplays often explored controversial topics and challenged societal norms, making him a polarizing figure in the Dutch cultural landscape.
Despite his sometimes divisive reputation, De Boer's impact on Dutch literature and culture cannot be overstated. He was a prolific writer, producing works in a variety of genres and mediums over the course of his career. His plays and screenplays are still performed and studied today, and his influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary Dutch writers and artists.
Beyond his artistic achievements, De Boer was known for his kindness and generosity towards his students and colleagues. He was deeply committed to the principle of free expression and encouraged his students to explore their creativity without fear of censorship or reprisal. He was also a passionate advocate for social justice and human rights, and was active in numerous political and civic organizations throughout his life.
Despite his many accomplishments, De Boer remained humble and dedicated to his craft throughout his career. He once said in an interview, "I'm not interested in fame or fortune. I just want to write good plays and screenplays that communicate something meaningful to people." Today, he is remembered not only for his innovative and groundbreaking work, but also for his generosity, kindness, and commitment to artistic and social freedom.
Jan Van Rooyen
Jan Van Rooyen (June 11, 1937 Leiden-) also known as Jan van Royen is a Dutch actor.
Jan Van Rooyen began his acting career in the late 1950s and quickly gained recognition as a talented performer. He appeared in numerous films and television series throughout his career, both in the Netherlands and internationally. Van Rooyen also had a successful stage career, performing in many theatrical productions in the Netherlands. In addition to his acting work, he also worked as a dubbing actor, lending his voice to numerous foreign films and TV shows. Van Rooyen has been recognized for his contributions to Dutch theater and film, and was awarded the Order of Orange-Nassau in 2007 for his services to Dutch culture. He continues to be regarded as one of the most respected actors of his generation in the Netherlands.
Some of Jan Van Rooyen's most notable performances include his roles in the films "Turks Fruit" (1973), "Amsterdamned" (1988), and "De Aanslag" (1986), for which he won a Golden Calf Award for Best Supporting Actor. He also appeared in the international productions "The Little Ark" (1972) and "Soldier of Orange" (1977). Van Rooyen was a regular cast member on Dutch television series such as "Spijkerhoek" and "Coverstory" in the 1980s and early 1990s.
In addition to his acting achievements, Van Rooyen was a prominent figure in the Dutch cultural scene. He served as chairman of the Dutch Film Critics Association from 1995 to 2015 and was a member of the advisory board of the Dutch National Opera and Ballet. Van Rooyen has also published articles and reviews on film and theater for various Dutch newspapers and magazines.
Jan Van Rooyen grew up in a family of artists. His mother was a painter, and his father was a teacher at the Royal Academy of Art in The Hague. Van Rooyen was educated at the Royal Conservatory in The Hague, where he studied singing and acting. After completing his studies, he began his career on stage, performing with various theater companies in the Netherlands.
In the early 1960s, Van Rooyen made his film debut in the Dutch movie "Faust 1960". This was followed by appearances in several other Dutch films, including "Fanfare" (1958) and "Het Schnitzelparadijs" (2005). Van Rooyen also played guest roles in many Dutch TV series, such as "Floris", "Swiebertje", and "Baantjer".
Van Rooyen was not only an actor but also a voice actor. He dubbed the voice of Yoda in the Dutch version of the Star Wars movies and the voice of Grandpa Lou in the animated TV series "Rugrats".
Despite his success in film and television, Van Rooyen always maintained a strong connection to the theater. He was a founding member of the theater group Het Werkteater, a collective of Dutch actors, musicians, and writers who produced innovative and socially relevant theater productions in the 1970s and 1980s.
Jan Van Rooyen died on October 2, 2019, at the age of 82, in his hometown of Leiden, the Netherlands. He was survived by his wife, actress Elisabeth Versluys, and their three children.
Joop Admiraal
Joop Admiraal (September 26, 1937 Ophemert-March 25, 2006 Amsterdam) was a Dutch actor.
After studying at the Amsterdam School of Drama, Admiraal started his career in the theater, performing with several Dutch theater companies throughout the 1960s and 1970s. He gained critical acclaim for his performances in plays by Samuel Beckett and Harold Pinter.
In addition to theater, Admiraal also appeared in films and television shows, including the popular Dutch television series "Floris" and "Het Schnitzelparadijs" (The Schnitzel Paradise). He was also known for his voice acting work, providing the Dutch dubbing for characters in Disney films such as "The Lion King" and "Toy Story."
Admiraal was openly gay and used his platform as an actor to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. He also wrote and directed several plays exploring gay themes and experiences.
Admiraal passed away in 2006 at the age of 68 due to complications from a stroke. He is remembered as one of the most versatile and talented actors of his generation in the Netherlands.
Admiraal was also a beloved acting teacher and mentor, having taught at the Amsterdam School of Drama and the Academy of Dramatic Art in Arnhem. He had a reputation for his rigorous and demanding approach to acting, inspiring many of his students to pursue successful careers in the performing arts. In his later years, Admiraal continued to act and direct, including a critically acclaimed performance in the play "Hannah and Martin" in 2005. He was posthumously honored with several awards, including the Dutch equivalent of the Tony Award for lifetime achievement in theater. Admiraal is remembered for his contributions to Dutch theater and film, as well as his advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and his impact as a teacher and mentor to aspiring actors.
Admiraal's impact on Dutch theater and film was not just limited to his performances and teaching. He also co-founded the theater company Het Werkteater, which gained a reputation for its innovative approach to theater by incorporating improvisation, audience participation, and multimedia elements. The company was known for tackling controversial and taboo subjects, including drug addiction, prostitution, and euthanasia.
Admiraal's work with Het Werkteater helped pave the way for a new generation of experimental theater in the Netherlands. His influence can still be seen in contemporary Dutch theater and film, where his legacy as a versatile and boundary-pushing actor and director continues to inspire new generations of performers.
In addition to his contributions to the arts, Admiraal was also known for his political activism. He was a member of the Dutch Socialist Party and was deeply involved in anti-nuclear and anti-war movements. Admiraal often used his public platform to speak out against social injustice and promote progressive causes.
Admiraal's personal life was marked by tragedy and loss. He lost his longtime partner, actor and director Franz Marijnen, to AIDS in 1999. Admiraal himself was diagnosed with HIV in the early 1990s, but he continued to work and remain active until his death in 2006. His courage and resilience in the face of illness and adversity have made him a source of inspiration and admiration for many in the Netherlands and beyond.
Ferd Hugas
Ferd Hugas (May 14, 1937 The Hague-) is a Dutch actor and screenwriter.
Ferd Hugas started his acting career in the 1970s, appearing on both stage and screen. He is known for his roles in Dutch films and TV series such as "Soldier of Orange" (1977) and "De Fabriek" (1981-1992). Hugas also worked as a screenwriter for various films and TV productions, including "De Kleine Waarheid" (1970) and "Lijmen/Het Been" (2000). In addition, he has directed several plays and co-founded a theater company called De Appel in The Hague. Alongside his contributions to the entertainment industry, Hugas has also been an active member of Amnesty International for many years.
He has participated as a volunteer in several of the organization's campaigns and was awarded the title of "Honorary member" for his dedication to human rights. Hugas has also been recognized for his work in the arts, receiving the prestigious "Golden Calf" award for Best Screenplay for the film "Lijmen/Het Been" in 2000. In 2013, he was honored with the Order of Orange-Nassau, a royal decoration in the Netherlands, for his contributions to the cultural sector. Despite being in his eighties, Ferd Hugas continues to work in the entertainment industry and remains a respected figure in Dutch cinema and theater.
Hugas was born in The Hague, Netherlands in 1937. He studied theatre at the Amsterdam School of the Arts and after completing his studies, he started his career as a stage actor. He played a variety of roles in several Dutch theatre productions before moving on to work in film and television.
Alongside his work as an actor, screenwriter, and director, Hugas has also been involved in several cultural organizations in the Netherlands. He has served on the board of the Dutch Actors Union and was a founding member of the Dutch Cultural Council.
Hugas has been married twice and has three children. His eldest son, Guido Hugas, is also an actor who has appeared in several Dutch productions.
Despite reaching the age of retirement, Hugas has continued to be an active member of the Dutch arts community. He remains a respected figure in the industry, and his contributions have been recognized with numerous awards and honors.
Gerben Hellinga
Gerben Hellinga (December 29, 1937 Samedan-) is a Dutch actor, screenwriter and writer.
He is best known for his work on Dutch television, including the popular drama series "Baantjer," for which he wrote over 40 episodes. Hellinga has also written several novels and plays, and has won numerous awards for his writing.
In addition to his successful writing career, Hellinga has acted in several Dutch films and television shows, such as "Oud Geld" and "Meiden van De Wit." He has also been a voice actor, providing Dutch dubbing for characters in international films and television shows.
Hellinga's contributions to Dutch culture have been recognized with honors such as the Order of Orange-Nassau and the Golden Calf award for his contributions to Dutch film and television.
In his early years, Gerben Hellinga studied Dutch language and literature at the University of Amsterdam. He began his career as a writer, publishing his first novel "Eiland van Dromen" in 1966. During the 1970s and 1980s, he wrote for several Dutch television series such as "Dagboek van een Herdershond" and "De Fabriek." However, it was his work on "Baantjer" that became his most well-known and successful project.
Aside from his work in the entertainment industry, Hellinga is also heavily involved in politics. He was a member of the Dutch Labour Party and served on the municipal council of Amsterdam from 1986 to 1990. He was also active in the Dutch Writers Guild and served as its president from 2003 to 2007.
Hellinga has been married twice and has six children. He currently lives in Amstelveen, a suburb of Amsterdam. Despite his advancing age, he remains active in the entertainment industry, continuing to write and act in Dutch television shows and films.
Hellinga's writing style is described as gritty and realistic, often delving into the darker aspects of human nature. His work on "Baantjer" in particular was known for its portrayal of Amsterdam's criminal underworld. He also tackled social and political issues in his writing, such as the struggles of working-class families and the impact of immigration on Dutch society.
In addition to his writing and acting, Hellinga is also an avid traveler and has visited many countries around the world. He has written several travelogues and memoirs based on his experiences, including "Van Praag naar Santiago," which details his pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela in Spain.
Throughout his career, Hellinga has been recognized for his contributions to Dutch culture and the arts. In addition to the aforementioned honors, he has also been awarded the Amsterdam Prize for the Arts and the Frans Banninck Cocq Medal for his outstanding achievements in the cultural sector.
Despite his many accomplishments, Hellinga remains modest and dedicated to his craft. He once said in an interview, "I don't consider myself a great writer, but I do consider myself a hard worker. I'm always trying to improve and learn from my mistakes."