Rob de Nijs, Dutch Singer and Actor, Dies at 82

Rob de Nijs, a prominent figure in Dutch music and entertainment, has died at the age of 82 on March 16, 2025. Known for his extensive career spanning six decades, de Nijs left a significant mark on the Dutch cultural landscape as both a singer and an actor.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born Robert de Nijs on December 26, 1942, in Amsterdam, Netherlands, de Nijs began his musical journey in 1962. He gained initial recognition after winning a talent contest and releasing his first single, “Ritme van de Regen,” which quickly became a success [1].

In 1965, a change in record labels for The Lords led to de Nijs parting ways with the group, embarking on a joint circus tour with Johnny Lion [1]. By 1967, de Nijs was performing at smaller venues and supplementing his income as a bartender [1].

Musical Success and Eurovision Attempt

De Nijs experienced a career resurgence in 1973 with the song “Jan Klaassen de Trompetter” [1]. He continued to release hit songs through 1975 and 1976, including “Malle Babbe” and a Dutch translation of David McWilliams’s “Can I Get There by Candlelight?” titled “Zet een Kaars voor Je Raam” [1].

Prior to his later successes, de Nijs participated in the Dutch heat of the Eurovision Song Contest in 1969 [1].

Acting Roles and Later Career

De Nijs also ventured into acting, securing roles in musicals such as Sajjuns Fiksjen and appearing in the children’s TV series Oebele and Hamelen, where he played Bertram Bierenbroodspot [1]. He remained active in the entertainment industry until 2022 [1].

Personal Life

Throughout his life, Rob de Nijs was married three times: to Elly Hesseling (1968-1981), Belinda Meuldijk (1984-2008) and Henriëtte Koetschruiter (2008) [1]. He is survived by three children [1].