Hilversum – Koos Postema, a prominent figure in Dutch radio and television, died on Saturday at the age of 93, his family announced Sunday. Postema passed away in the presence of his daughters, Judith and Ingrid, following a period of declining health.
Postema began his career at the VARA radio station in 1960, contributing to the program Dingen van de dag. He transitioned to television two years later as a reporter for Achter Het Nieuws, where he covered significant international events including the Portuguese uprising in Angola, the Skopje earthquake and the Biafran war and famine. His reporting was characterized by a calm and approachable style, earning him a reputation as a trustworthy and insightful journalist.
In the 1980s, Postema became widely recognized as the host of Klasgenoten, a popular reunion program that resonated with a broad audience. He later continued to present the show on Veronica and RTL 4. He too contributed to the NOS, serving as a commentator during the 1980 inauguration of Queen Beatrix and appearing on radio programs such as Langs de Lijn and Radio Tour de France.
Throughout his career, Postema was known for his willingness to address sensitive and often avoided topics. In the 1970s, his program Een klein uur U, for which he received the Zilveren Nipkowschijf in 1971, tackled subjects such as euthanasia, transsexuality, infertility, and abortion – issues that were rarely discussed on Dutch television at the time. RTL described him as a dedicated advocate for public service broadcasting, highlighting his involvement in initiatives like Kans voor een Kind and the national television campaign during the 1995 flood threat.
Political figures and media personalities have expressed their sadness at Postema’s passing. Incoming Prime Minister Rob Jetten described him as “an icon of Dutch radio and television,” praising his ability to bring societal issues to the forefront. Presenter Henny Huisman remembered him as “a great professional and stunning storyteller with a lot of humor.” RTL characterized Postema as a “committed and skilled radio and television maker who was of great importance to the Netherlands.”
Postema was born in Rotterdam, the son of a tram driver who died when he was four years old. He experienced the Rotterdam Blitz during World War II as a seven-year-old, an event that deeply impacted him. He pursued studies at the Pedagogical Academy in Rotterdam before embarking on his broadcasting career. His funeral will be held privately, according to his family.
