Herman Brusselmans Quits ‘The Smartest Human’ Despite Talk with Erik Van Looy

Belgian author Herman Brusselmans has announced his departure as a juryl member on the popular quiz show ‘De Slimste Mens ter Wereld’ (The Smartest Person in the World), citing concerns about the current composition of the judging panel. The decision, revealed Tuesday on Radio 2’s ‘Weekwatchers’ program, comes despite a recent conversation with the show’s host, Erik Van Looy.

Brusselmans expressed dissatisfaction with what he perceives as a lack of expertise among some of his fellow jurors. “Being a jury member is a profession, and You’ll see too many people sitting on the jury who have nothing to do with that profession,” he stated, according to reports from VRT NWS. He contrasted the current panel with previous iterations, recalling times when the jury consisted of a smaller group of experienced professionals like Jeroom and Philippe Geubels.

The author indicated he felt undervalued this season, noting he was only scheduled to appear twice, while other jurors were invited on multiple occasions. “I don’t know why they told me I was only allowed to come twice. I think there’s something behind that. I will meet with Erik Van Looy,” he said.

Play, the television channel broadcasting ‘De Slimste Mens ter Wereld’, has responded to Brusselmans’ criticism by inviting him to dinner with Van Looy, signaling an attempt to address his concerns.

Brusselmans’ decision follows a period of controversy stemming from accusations of antisemitism leveled against him in late 2024, related to a column published in Humo magazine. Despite the backlash, Erik Van Looy reportedly refused a request from the Forum der Joodse Organisaties to remove Brusselmans from the show, allowing him to resume his role as a juror on October 14, 2024. Brusselmans, at the time, stated he would not be swayed by the criticism, asserting, “Certain people are of the opinion that I should no longer be in entertainment programs after my controversial column, but I don’t care about that.”

In the 23rd season of the show, 28 jury members participated, including Brusselmans. He believes his departure is a matter of principle, stating he “no longer feels at home in that world.”