Paulien Cornelisse, known for her observations on behavior and language, passed away at the age of 50 after a battle with cancer, de Volkskrant reported.
Herman van der Zandt Honors Paulien Cornelisse on De Slimste Mens
Herman van der Zandt paid tribute to Cornelisse during an episode of The Smartest Person, describing it as an honor to have worked alongside her. While the quiz show broadcasts daily, van der Zandt noted that the final episodes featuring Cornelisse were recorded in June. He acknowledged that watching her energy and cheerfulness on screen now is difficult for viewers who know she has passed away.
Van der Zandt shared that while he knew Cornelisse’s health had declined recently, her condition deteriorated very rapidly in her final days. Because production on the show was paused, the two maintained contact through text messages. Van der Zandt stated that if they had not seen each other for a few days, the lead editor and he would receive updates phrased in her characteristic, plastic descriptions. The ultimate message behind her updates was always a shared intention to make the day a good one, a positive attitude that van der Zandt said he would take as an example for himself.
Broadcasting Adjustments and Public Reactions
Omroep KRO-NCRV announced that, in consultation with Cornelisse’s family, the scheduled broadcast of The Smartest Person following her passing was cancelled. Instead, digital television guides and evening schedules reflected her passing, while talk shows and public figures addressed the loss. NRC reported that talk show host Eva Jinek became visibly emotional while reading a condolence tweet from Rob Jetten regarding Cornelisse.
Cornelisse’s husband also published a column written in her distinctive style, sharing her most cherished text and offering a glimpse into their life together, according to AD.nl.
Broadcasters and family mark passing of Paulien Cornelisse
When were Paulien Cornelisse’s final television appearances recorded?
Her final episodes of The Smartest Person were recorded in June, prior to her passing at age 50.
How did broadcasters mark her passing on television?
Omroep KRO-NCRV decided in consultation with her family to cancel a scheduled broadcast of The Smartest Person, replacing standard programming with tributes and reflections on her life and work.
Where was her partner’s column published?
Her husband published a column written in her style in AD.nl, sharing personal insights and a cherished text from their life together.
Related reading