Mariska Bauer, wife of Dutch singer Frans Bauer, recently spent several days in the hospital undergoing tests for persistent back pain, according to reports from RTL Boulevard on January 19, 2026. The 49-year-traditional Bauer was admitted as a precaution to determine the cause of the discomfort, which has been ongoing.
Frans Bauer, 52, stated that doctors conducted scans to rule out a herniated disc. “Luckily, we already understand that nothing serious is going on,” he told RTL Boulevard. Mariska Bauer herself confirmed she was “doing okay, considering the circumstances” and that they were “just waiting” for further information.
The hospitalization comes four years after Mariska Bauer suffered a brain infarction, an event described by those around her as far more serious. The current back problems are reportedly taking a toll both physically and mentally, according to RTL Boulevard.
Despite the health concerns, the Bauer family is preparing to celebrate Mariska’s 50th birthday on January 26th. Frans Bauer hinted at a special surprise for his wife, mentioning a possible airplane banner reading “Mariska 50,” though he remained playfully tight-lipped about confirming the plans. “We’ll see,” he said with a laugh. “I have to keep my mouth shut, that’s what I promised. But one thing is certain: Maris will have a great day. She deserves it.”
The Bauers, who have been together for 30 years, are as well anticipating another joyous occasion: the upcoming birth of a grandchild, as their son Jan is expecting a child. This development adds to a period of significant change for the family, as their four sons are becoming increasingly independent adults.
In October 2025, Frans and Mariska Bauer announced their participation in the AVROTROS program “Frans & Mariska, Stellen op de Proef” (Frans & Mariska, Testing Grounds). The demonstrate follows the couple as they explore the possibility of spending winters in Spain, a popular choice for Dutch retirees. They are visiting various holiday homes along the Spanish coast and interacting with other Dutch expats, including well-known personalities like Danny and Jenny de Munk, Hans and Wendy Kazàn and Erben and Renate Wennemars.
The program also delves into the challenges and opportunities of this new life stage, addressing questions about aging, supporting grown children, and finding fulfillment in their newfound free time. The first episode of “Frans & Mariska, Stellen op de Proef” is scheduled to air on NPO 1 on December 20th, 2025.
