Aster Nzeyimana, the 31-year-old sport journalist and presenter, has achieved something remarkable by winning the beloved Flemish quiz show De Slimste Mens ter Wereld (The Smartest Person in the World). The final, which aired on Thursday night, witnessed Nzeyimana battling against actress Daphne Agten and online videomaker Timon Verbeeck, resulting in Nzeyimana’s jubilant victory.
Before the finale began, Timon Verbeeck, at just 22 years old, humorously expressed his concerns about his standing against two knowledgeable contenders. “The last episode without ever winning? I really don't get why I'm here!” he quipped, hinting at the intense pressure felt by finalists when faced with such challenges. He performed admirably before being eliminated, finishing with 178 seconds—far shorter compared to Agten’s 538 seconds and Nzeyimana’s 481 seconds.
The real showdown unfolded between Nzeyimana and Agten as they approached the ultimate question. Both contestants exchanged sharp answers as the clock ticked down. Agten teased Nzeyimana, saying, “Zit maar in je ongemakkelijkheid! Wat gaat Vlaanderen hiervan denken?” (Stay in your discomfort! What will Flanders think of this?). Nzeyimana, strategically delaying his answer, positioned himself perfectly with only six seconds remaining.
“The United States has eight states beginning with the letter M. Maine, Maryland, and Massachusetts are free answers. What are the other five?” the final question asked. Nzeyimana initially hesitated, quickly mentioning Minnesota and then faced a mental block. “I kept repeating ‘Maryland’ as the seconds were counting down. My mind was racing,” he recalled. Just when it seemed he might falter, he suddenly blurted out the answer: “Mississippi!” and sighed with relief, collapsing from the tension. His answer clinched the title, making him the winner of this season’s De Slimste Mens.
“Kalmte heeft me gered,” Nzeyimana stated, reflecting on how staying calm throughout the competition was pivotal for his performance. Against all odds, he shared his emotional connection to the show, saying, “This means so much for me. I watched this quiz as a child and never dreamed I would get to participate—let alone win. So yes, I’m a super happy winner of De Slimste Mens ter Wereld!”
Daphne Agten, gracious even in defeat, smiled brightly and expressed her admiration for Nzeyimana, saying, “I genuinely want to cry for you, oh Astertje.” Following the showdown, she admitted, “De Slimste Mens is like Wonderland. You meet great jury members, get to know a fun presenter, and other nice competitors. I wish it to everyone, but Aster, just slightly more.” Her comments captured the sportsmanship and camaraderie often highlighted throughout the show’s history.
During the finale, the atmosphere was charged with excitement. Agten had been performing exceptionally well throughout the competition, often outshining her competitors. Despite her heavy lead during the regular rounds, Nzeyimana demonstrated not only knowledge but also tactical brilliance when it mattered most.
Erik Van Looy, the presenter, closed the season with encouraging words for viewers at home: “See you next year for another season of this quiz! Hopefully, in a world with less war and much more peace.” His sentiments echoed the spirit of unity and knowledge the show aims to promote.
After his win, Nzeyimana was approached for subsequent projects, including hosting De Avond van de Filmmuziek at the Sportpaleis, promising to lead the event featuring renowned film soundtracks. “I was surprised and honored when they asked me. Who wouldn't want to present at the Sportpaleis? I already peeked at the setlist, and there are real gems,” he beamed, marking another milestone after his quiz victory.
Reflecting on his unpredictable yet rewarding experience, Nzeyimana likened participating to balancing life's demands and the thrill of public competition. Despite initial fears of failure, he emerged triumphant, embodying the spirit of resilience and the joy of learning.
His participation and victory not only reshaped his recognition but also reinforced the idea among fans and followers of De Slimste Mens ter Wereld: intelligence need not always neatly dictate outcomes, as sometimes, tenacity and charm can carry the day.
