While 34-year-old Thomas van Groningen projects an image of affability and eccentricity on television, a recent interview reveals a contrasting persona behind the scenes.
His partner, Iris Martens, 30, has voiced concerns about his behavior at home, shedding light on a less flattering side of the media figure.

Martens Expresses Disappointment

Martens articulated her frustration in a joint interview, highlighting the challenges of sharing quality time with van Groningen.
She described a recurring scenario:

Sometimes you really do your best to watch something with me,but than I see you looking at the clock around 21.30 because then you want to look inside again today.

This refers to his desire to watch his preferred television programs.
The couple, who share a son, struggle to find common ground in their evening routines.

The Infamous “Pause Button”

Martens further elaborated on van groningen’s dismissive behavior when she attempts to engage with him during his television viewing:

I don’t have to talk if you watch TV. If I say something that you know: now I have to listen, then you press a pause button with a sigh.

This “pause button” incident has become a symbol of their disconnect,illustrating van Groningen’s prioritization of television over his partner’s attention.

Van Groningen acknowledges His Behavior

Van Groningen has acknowledged his less-than-ideal behavior, stating:

I didn’t know that Buis & Haard can be such a revealing section, but this is also true.

He attributes his television obsession to professional habits, explaining that he feels compelled to stay informed about current events and various talk shows.

A Professional Deformation?

Van Groningen admits to prioritizing television over personal connection, citing a need to stay updated on news and political discussions.
He stated:

Of course I watch all the talk shows, the news programs and boulevard. That is also a bit of professional deformation.I even look back on politics. I soon have the feeling that I miss things.

This constant need to be informed extends beyond the home, influencing his habits even while driving.

Television as Radio

Van Groningen revealed an unconventional method of consuming television content:

That’s right. What I do a lot nowadays is TV in the car, as a radio. Eva Jinek I have not seen for months, but I hear it every day.

This practice highlights his dedication to staying informed, even when visual engagement is not possible.

Favorites in the Talk Show landscape

van Groningen shared his opinions on several prominent talk show hosts:

• Renze:
  And I like to look at Renze. He knows how to keep the conversations exciting.
• Sven Kockelmann:
  I have worked for Sven Kockelmann and if Sven is doing a political interview, I always want to know how it ends.
• Wilfred Genee:
  Wilfred Genee I find as a talk show host on a lonely height.

These preferences offer insight into his professional interests and the qualities he values in a talk show host.

Balancing Public Image and Private Life

The revelations from this interview raise questions about the balance between public persona and private life, particularly for individuals in the media spotlight.
While Thomas van Groningen’s television presence might potentially be engaging, his home life appears to be a work in progress.