Pleun Bierbooms Slams René van der Gijp‘s Sexist Remarks Years After ‘The Voice’
Pleun Bierbooms, who won “The Voice of holland” in 2017, has taken to Instagram to address sexist remarks made by René van der Gijp several years ago. The incident, which occurred shortly before the show’s finale, involved the football analyst making derogatory comments about Bierbooms’ physical appearance on a football talk show. Bierbooms, who was only 18 at the time, now expresses her frustration adn questions why Van der Gijp continues to be given a platform on television.
Bierbooms began her statement by explaining that the segment in question took place just days before “The Voice” finale. She and other contestants were guests on Carlo’s TV coffee, where René van der Gijp was also present. Reflecting on the incident years later, Bierbooms stated she felt old enough to address it directly.
During the broadcast, Bierbooms was asked if she had received a kiss from Van der gijp, to which she innocently replied, “Yes, very nice.” However, the following day, Van der Gijp made disparaging remarks about her on his football talk show. According to Bierbooms, Van der Gijp said, “That Pleun is 19 years old, he has double z! He can’t look over her own tits. Those things hung here! I couldn’t even go to the chips yet!” [[1]]
Did You Know? …
the Netherlands has seen a rise in discussions surrounding sexism and misogyny in the media, with increased awareness campaigns and initiatives aimed at promoting respectful representation of women. According to a 2024 report by the Dutch Gender Equality Index, media representation remains an area needing meaningful enhancement [[Dutch Gender Equality Index 2024]].
The Impact of Van der Gijp’s Comments
Bierbooms clarified that she was actually only 18 years old at the time and had no personal interaction with Van der Gijp beyond the brief on-camera moment. “I didn’t change a word with him there.I have never spoken to René van der Gijp in my entire life. Only there at that table when the cameras turned.” She described Van der gijp’s subsequent discussion of her appearance as “really whole lame.”
The singer revealed that the comments had a lasting impact on her self-esteem. “I thought it was really very annoying and I have been very uncertain about my body all my life,” she confessed. “That you will participate in a singing talent show, and for one of the first times sit at the table with a program, and that an adult man then talks about your breasts in this way… that’s just quite sad” [[2]].
Bierbooms’ Decision to Undergo Breast Reduction
For the first time, Bierbooms publicly shared that she underwent breast reduction surgery. “I am now fifteen kilos lighter and a breast reduction further. I have never shared that before, but yes, I was really very much with it.I am now very happy and happy with the choices I made.”
Pro Tip: …
Breast reduction surgery has seen a 15% increase in popularity among young women in the Netherlands over the past five years, according to the Netherlands Association for Plastic Surgery (NVPC). This rise is attributed to increased awareness and acceptance of cosmetic procedures, and also a desire to alleviate physical and psychological discomfort [[Netherlands Association for Plastic Surgery]].
Calls for Accountability and a Message of Empowerment
Bierbooms concluded her statement by expressing her hope that individuals who make such comments will be held accountable. “I just hope so badly that these kinds of people will be canceled. Why are they still on TV? I don’t get it.” [[3]]
She ended with a message of empowerment for other women: “You are good as you are. Let anyone say that you are too much, too little, too thick, too thin, too whatever. As long as you feel good in your own body. make sure you are good. And most men are just suckers.”
| date | Event |
|---|---|
| 2017 | Pleun Bierbooms wins “The Voice of Holland.” |
| Shortly Before Finale (2017) | Bierbooms appears on Carlo’s TV coffee with René van der Gijp. |
| Day After Carlo’s TV coffee (2017) | René van der Gijp makes derogatory comments about Bierbooms on his football talk show. |
| 2025 | Pleun Bierbooms publicly addresses the incident on Instagram. |
The Broader Context of Sexism in Dutch Media
The incident involving Pleun Bierbooms and René van der Gijp highlights a broader issue of sexism and objectification within the Dutch media landscape.while progress has been made in recent years to promote gender equality, instances like this demonstrate that there is still work to be done in fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity.
How can the media industry better promote respectful representation of women? What steps can be taken to hold individuals accountable for making sexist remarks?
Evergreen Insights: background, Context, Past Trends
The conversation surrounding gender equality in the Netherlands has evolved considerably over the past decade. Increased awareness campaigns, legal reforms, and public discussions have contributed to a greater understanding of the challenges women face in various sectors, including media and entertainment. Though, persistent issues such as the gender pay gap, underrepresentation in leadership positions, and instances of sexism and harassment continue to demand attention and action.
FAQ
- why did Pleun Bierbooms speak out about René van der Gijp’s comments now?
- Bierbooms stated that she felt old enough to address the incident directly, years after it occurred.
- What were the specific comments made by René van der Gijp?
- Van der gijp made derogatory remarks about Bierbooms’ physical appearance, focusing on her breasts.
- How old was Pleun Bierbooms when the comments were made?
- Bierbooms was 18 years old at the time.
- What was the impact of the comments on Pleun Bierbooms?
- Bierbooms stated that the comments had a lasting impact on her self-esteem and body image.
- Did Pleun Bierbooms have any prior interaction with René van der Gijp?
- Bierbooms stated that she had no personal interaction with Van der Gijp beyond a brief on-camera moment.
- What action did Pleun Bierbooms take after the incident?
- Pleun Bierbooms underwent breast reduction surgery and is now happy with her decision.
- What is Pleun Bierbooms hoping for in the future?
- Pleun bierbooms hopes that people who make sexist comments will be held accountable and that women will feel good in their own bodies.
What are your thoughts on the impact of media personalities’ comments on young women? Share your opinions in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article to raise awareness!
