Gerard Joling speaks out on René Froger health and De Toppers

That I find very terrible. You wouldn’t wish that on your worst enemy, and outside of that, he is a good friend and colleague, Gerard Joling said on NPO Radio 5 regarding René Froger’s recent autoimmune diagnosis.

The remarks, reported by Shownieuws, mark the first time Joling has spoken publicly about his fellow singer’s health struggles. Froger announced in September that he is suffering from myositis, a muscle disease that forced him to step back from work and cancel upcoming appearances.

Joling Expects De Toppers to Continue into 2027

During the radio interview with Daniel Dekker, Joling addressed whether the popular concert group De Toppers will continue into 2027. Joling responded positively, stating that he expects the group to keep going. Radio DJ Daniel Dekker noted during the broadcast that an edition of De Toppers without Froger would feel strange. Joling agreed with that assessment while suggesting a way forward that accommodates his colleague’s condition.

That would be strange, but I also think that his role can be a little smaller and that he is just there again, Joling said. At the same time, Joling emphasized that rest is currently the most important priority for Froger, adding that he considers him an essential force behind the concert series’ success and a pleasure to work with.

Danny Froger Describes His Father's Fluctuating Condition

While Joling discussed the logistical future of the concert series, René Froger’s son, Danny, provided additional context on the singer’s daily condition. Speaking to Show.nl, Danny explained that his father’s condition fluctuates significantly from day to day, with moments of strength alternating with much more difficult periods.

Danny noted that his father is now choosing to take the necessary rest, a decision supported by the family despite the difficulty for an artist accustomed to performing throughout his life. According to his son, the singer has nothing left to prove as an artist, and the family’s primary focus is ensuring he remains with them for a long time.