Dutch version of The Voice off air after sexual pressure claims
THE original version of the popular talent competition The Voice has been cancelled in the Netherlands after allegations of sexual harassment against some of its high-profile cast members.
At least two of its cast were accused of using their position to put sexual pressure on women involved in its production.
Jeroen Rietbergen, the show’s band leader, admitted he had “sexual contact” with women involved in it several years ago, having been warned about his behaviour. He said he believed the interactions were “reciprocal and equal” but now understood the women “may have had a different experience”.
“During my years of involvement with The Voice of Holland, I had contact of a sexual nature with some women involved in the programme,” he added.
Complaints were also filed against rapper Ali B, one of the show’s judges. He told De Telegraaf newspaper: “I am 100 per cent convinced of my innocence.”
Another woman claimed last year that Marco Borsato, a former coach on the show, had abused her since she was 15. He denies the allegations.
Anouk Teeuwe, a Dutch singer, quit as a judge on the programme at the weekend in light of the claims. She alleged that others on the show “had chosen to keep the misconduct silent and look the other way”.
The programme’s spin-offs include the UK version which features Tom Jones and Will.i.am, of the Black Eyed Peas, as judges.
The allegations will be aired as part of an investigation by BOOS, a Dutch current affairs programme, on Thursday. RTL, the show’s broadcaster, said it would suspend the show until a full investigation was completed.