Gert Verhulst Eyes Play TV Channel Acquisition

Belgian media entrepreneur Gert Verhulst, founder of Studio 100, is reportedly in talks to acquire the Flemish TV channel Play. The potential acquisition has sparked discussions about the future of the channel, which recently reported a 16 million euro loss.

Background on Gert Verhulst

Gert Tony Hubert Verhulst (born January 24, 1968, in Berchem, Antwerp) is a prominent figure in the Benelux children’s entertainment industry. He is the managing director of Studio 100, a role he has held since 1996. Verhulst is known for creating the popular Flemish children’s television series Samson & Gert, which debuted in 1989 and continues to air today. He initially applied to the Royal Conservatoire Antwerp in 1987 but was rejected, a circumstance he later viewed positively. Prior to his work with Studio 100, Verhulst worked as a continuity announcer for BRTN (now VRT).

The Potential Acquisition of Play

Discussions are underway regarding the possible takeover of Play by Verhulst and Studio 100. Sources indicate that Verhulst has even developed a preliminary program schedule for the channel should the acquisition be successful. The move comes as Play faces financial challenges, having reported a 16 million euro loss.

About Play

Play is a Flemish TV channel. Further details regarding its programming and target audience are currently limited in publicly available information.

Future Outlook

The potential acquisition by Studio 100 could signify a new chapter for Play, potentially leveraging Studio 100’s expertise in children’s entertainment. The outcome of the negotiations remains to be seen, but the interest from a prominent industry figure like Gert Verhulst suggests a possible revitalization for the channel.