Albert Verlinde expresses frustration over media coverage of Onno Hoes
Albert Verlinde has expressed frustration with media coverage regarding the past relationship controversies of his husband, Onno Hoes, following a celebration for their 25th wedding anniversary, mediacourant.nl reported on October 14, 2026. The milestone event triggered renewed public attention toward historical scandals involving Hoes, prompting Verlinde to question why media outlets continue to revisit the past.
Anniversary Celebration Sparks Past Media Scrutiny
Verlinde and Hoes recently marked 25 years of marriage alongside their 65th birthdays by hosting a large gathering in their garden. According to interviews given to De Telegraaf and reported by mediacourant.nl, various media reports characterized the celebration as an official renewal of vows. Verlinde clarified that no formal remarriage ceremony took place, explaining that they simply choose each other every day.
The coverage immediately pivoted to past relationship strains, frustrating Verlinde. He noted that the couple separated for only three months during a period that occurred fourteen years ago. Verlinde pointed out that other public figures experience separations without enduring persistent long-term media attention.
Historical Scandals Involving Onno Hoes
The public interest stems from high-profile controversies during the time Hoes served as the mayor of Maastricht. In 2013, reports emerged regarding encounters with a younger man named Ruud Schepers, followed by statements from another individual, Danny A., regarding intimate contact with Hoes published in the magazine Privé. In 2014, additional scrutiny arose when secret recordings involving Robbie Hasselt were provided to PowNews, as documented by mediacourant.nl.
Additional media coverage continued in subsequent years. Designer Addy van den Krommenacker published a book last year containing claims regarding intimate contact with Hoes, adding further chapters to the public narrative surrounding the couple.
Focusing on the Positive Aspects of the Relationship
Despite the persistent media focus, Verlinde emphasized the enduring strengths of his relationship with Hoes. Verlinde described Hoes as loving, handsome, and strong, noting that they regularly converse and maintain a close partnership.