Danny Verbiest, the beloved voice behind the iconic dog Samson, has passed away at the age of 79. His death, confirmed by Studio 100 and his family, marks the end of an era for fans of the popular children's series.
Known for his role as a puppeteer in the beloved show "Samson en Gert," Verbiest first voiced the character of Samson in 1989, becoming a household name in both Belgium and the Netherlands. The show, which he co-created with Gert Verhulst, debuted its own program in the fall of 1990, quickly capturing the hearts of young audiences and their families.
Verbiest's contributions to children's entertainment extended far beyond his role as Samson. He was a co-founder of Studio 100 in 1996, a production company that has become a powerhouse in the realm of children's television and theater. Under his guidance, Studio 100 produced numerous successful shows, including "Kabouter Plop," "Piet Piraat," and "K3," as well as various musicals that delighted audiences.
During his remarkable career, Verbiest lent his voice to over 700 episodes of "Samson en Gert," creating a character that resonated with children who found joy in Samson's humorous misadventures. His inspiration for the character stemmed from his youngest daughter, who often mispronounced difficult words. "My youngest daughter lived among adults, which led her to use words she thought were correct, but she often got them wrong," he shared in an interview.
Verbiest's last appearance as Samson came in 2005, coinciding with the fifteenth anniversary of the show's launch. After retiring, he sold his shares in Studio 100, seeking new challenges and opportunities. However, he remained dedicated to charitable causes, notably ensuring that patients at the Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel could visit their pets, a project that brought comfort to those in need.
In recent years, Verbiest had withdrawn from the public eye, grappling with ongoing health issues. His absence from the spotlight was noticeable, particularly during the celebrations for 30 years of "Samson en Gert." Gert Verhulst acknowledged the difficulties surrounding Verbiest's health, referring to them as "challenging circumstances" exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Studio 100 expressed their condolences through a heartfelt message on Instagram, stating, "Sleep well, Danny," while also extending their sympathies to his family and everyone who worked alongside him. The impact of Verbiest's work is evident in the countless lives he touched through his performances and philanthropic efforts.
As fans and colleagues mourn the loss of Danny Verbiest, his legacy as the voice of Samson and a pioneer in children's entertainment will undoubtedly live on. His contributions to the industry, marked by creativity and compassion, have left an indelible mark on the hearts of many.
In the wake of his passing, tributes continue to pour in from fans and fellow creators, celebrating not only his work but also the joy he brought to generations of children. Verbiest's journey from the face of the children's program "Kameleon" to the cherished voice of a beloved character serves as a testament to his talent and dedication.
As the world reflects on the life of Danny Verbiest, it is clear that his influence will be felt for many years to come. The legacy of Samson, a character that brought laughter and learning to countless children, is a fitting tribute to the man behind the voice.
