Loretta Schrijver, a beloved Dutch television presenter, passed away on March 27, 2025, at the age of 68 after a long battle with cancer. Known for her warm personality and distinctive voice, Schrijver was a prominent figure in the Dutch media landscape, having co-presented RTL Nieuws with Jeroen Pauw in the 1990s and hosted various popular programs, including Koffietijd and The Masked Singer.
Born in New York in 1956, Schrijver spent her early years in the United States before returning to the Netherlands at the age of eight. Her father, Max Schrijver, a Jewish textile merchant, often sought new opportunities in America, which led to several family relocations. In her youth, Loretta developed a passion for acting, but after being rejected twice from drama school, she pivoted to studying translation in Amsterdam.
Her career in broadcasting began unexpectedly when she worked as a prop manager and later as a subtitler for the NOS, where she honed her skills in media production. She eventually joined Radio Nederland Wereldomroep, where she met Jeroen Pauw, with whom she would later form a notable presenting duo. In 1988, Schrijver was convinced by veteran broadcaster Jaap van Meekren to join RTL Veronique, the first commercial broadcaster in the Netherlands, where she became a pioneer in news presentation.
Schrijver's distinctive style, characterized by her accessible approach to news, set her apart from her contemporaries. "She informed millions of people about world news in her own accessible way," said Ilse Openneer, editor-in-chief of RTL Nieuws. "Her laugh echoed through the newsroom. We are incredibly grateful for everything Loretta has meant to RTL Nieuws." Schrijver's impact on the network was profound, as she remained a central figure from its inception in 1989 until her departure in 2007.
After a brief stint at AVRO, she returned to RTL, where she became the face of Koffietijd, a morning talk show she hosted alongside Quinty Trustfull from 2010 until the show's conclusion in May 2023. Her presence on television was not limited to news; she participated in reality shows like Wie is de mol? and served as a jury member on The Masked Singer, showcasing her versatility as a presenter.
Despite her success, Schrijver's life was not without challenges. In 2021, she was diagnosed with bowel cancer, which she openly discussed in her columns for Nouveau. In early 2024, she revealed that her cancer had returned and metastasized, a difficult battle she faced with remarkable courage. "I am sick. The bowel cancer that I was operated on for three years ago has returned for almost two years now," she wrote in her last column. Schrijver's openness about her illness resonated with many, as she emphasized that she was just one of the "hundreds of thousands" of people dealing with illness.
Throughout her career, Schrijver was known for her love of animals, often expressing her disdain for human cruelty in contrast to her deep affection for pets. She was an advocate for animal welfare and worked with organizations like the World Wildlife Fund and World Animal Protection. In 2016, she was knighted for her commitment to environmental causes and animal rights.
Her personal life was marked by a long-term relationship with Lou Vaz Dias, a writer who was significantly older than her. The two shared a deep bond, although they never lived together, instead opting for separate homes in Amsterdam. Schrijver was also known for her candidness about her feelings towards society, often expressing discomfort with the human condition and preferring the company of her beloved dogs.
As news of her passing spread, tributes poured in from colleagues and fans alike. Sven Sauvé and Peter van der Vorst of RTL expressed their sadness and disbelief, stating, "We are devastated and incredibly sad about the unexpected news that Loretta has passed away. It is hard to comprehend that she is no longer with us. Our thoughts are with her partner and all her family and friends during this incredible loss."
Schrijver's legacy as a pioneering figure in Dutch television and a compassionate advocate for animal rights will be remembered fondly by many. Her unique ability to connect with audiences, combined with her unwavering optimism in the face of adversity, made her a cherished figure in the hearts of viewers across the Netherlands. As the media mourns her loss, it is clear that Loretta Schrijver's impact on Dutch broadcasting and her advocacy for animals will continue to resonate for years to come.
