Eveline Stallaart, the renowned sexologist and television expert known for her appearances on Married At First Sight and RTL Boulevard, recently faced public scrutiny over her planned photoshoot with Playboy. The controversy surrounding her decision to feature sensually led to her eventual withdrawal from the project, which sparked considerable discussion about women's representation and sexuality.
Stallaart had originally announced her intent to participate in the shoot during the Dutch television program Vandaag Inside last autumn. This declaration ignited national debate, with responses ranging from enthusiastic support to harsh criticism. "There was a nationwide discussion, with some saying: 'how cool, you're daring to do this,' but many others cried out: 'you shouldn't do this at all,'" Stallaart explained, reflecting on the polarized responses she faced.
After receiving significant backlash, particularly from various partners with whom she collaborates, Stallaart decided to cancel the sensual photoshoot. "I was approached by several companies asking me what my intentions were and expressing their discomfort with the idea. This was the reason I chose to pull back from the sensual photos," she stated. Stallaart's sentiment highlights the friction between personal expression and professional expectations, particularly for women in the public eye.
The criticism did not end with her professional partners; it also came from her colleagues. Notably, fellow RTL Boulevard presenter Miljuschka Witzenhausen, who identifies as a body positivity advocate, publicly questioned Stallaart's decision to collaborate with Playboy. She implied it was outdated, saying, "If you’re going nude, then you should just use OnlyFans for it." This remark left Stallaart feeling disappointed, especially coming from another woman. "I found it disheartening to see her respond so harshly," Stallaart commented. "She wondered aloud if Playboy is still relevant today. Her conclusion was no, claiming if you go nude, it’s only right to do it on OnlyFans."
For Stallaart, the distinction between platforms like Playboy and OnlyFans is significant. She views Playboy as a medium show-casing feminine nudity with elegance and style, stating, "I believe Playboy is still quite stylish overall." She expressed regret over the intensity of Witzenhausen's criticism, especially as they are colleagues. "I would never have voiced such harsh opinions if our roles were reversed. It's disappointing to see this kind of response, especially among women who should be uplifting each other," Stallaart reflected.
This dialogue reflects broader cultural conversations about how women's bodies are represented and the platforms used for such representations. Stallaart's intended photoshoot with Playboy could be viewed as bold, yet her eventual withdrawal corresponds to prevailing societal pressures and expectations about how women should portray themselves publicly.
Despite the cancellation of the sensual photoshoot, Stallaart still features within the magazine but with more 'ordinary' photographs, which she hopes will convey her message about self-acceptance and body positivity. "I want to radiate as a sexologist: you should show what you have as a woman," she remarked, direct and unapologetic.
Moving forward, women like Stallaart continue to navigate challenging discussions about empowerment, societal standards, and personal expression. The incident raises questions: Are platforms like Playboy still applicable for erotic and artistic expression? Or should alternative outlets like OnlyFans redefine how women choose to showcase their sexuality? Such debates are certainly far from over, as society continues to grapple with these issues.
Stallaart's story serves as a reminder of the conflicting expectations faced by women, especially those who operate at the intersection of sexuality and professionalism. Her experience is not only personal but also resonates with many women striving to express themselves authentically amid societal scrutiny. Whatever the outcome, Stallaart remains steadfast about her beliefs and aspirations for women to embrace their bodies confidently.