Fans of the long-running Dutch police drama Flikken Maastricht can finally rejoice as the show returns for its highly anticipated nineteenth season, premiering on February 7, 2025, at 8:30 PM on NPO 1. The excitement around the new season is palpable, especially after the tension-filled finale of the previous season left viewers with bated breath.
Season 18 ended on several cliffhangers, leaving key characters' fates hanging in the balance. Detective Floris Wolfs, portrayed by Victor Reinier, was seriously injured and faced the scrutiny over the death of the notorious drug lord, known as 'Lucky Ben,' whose son he accidentally shot during a chaotic brawl. Meanwhile, Eva van Dongen, played by Angela Schijf, was mixed up in the turmoil, including dealing with her escaped niece, Ellis, who was still plotting revenge. With so many loose ends to tie up, audiences are eager to see how the series will resolve these high-stakes plotlines.
This season marks significant changes, including Eva's new hairstyle—an update Schijf readily embraced. She shared on social media, "Geloof me, van binnen is ze nog steeds dezelfde. Weer of geen weer, pony of geen pony, waakzaam en dienstbaar, zoals het een goede flik betaamt." ("Believe me, inside she’s still the same. Rain or shine, bangs or no bangs, vigilant and dedicated, as befits a good cop.") Many fans had expressed concerns about the lasting impact of Eva's transformation, but Schijf reassures them: "Vanaf vrijdag is ze er weer. En laten we wel wezen, Eva van Dongen blijft natuurlijk niet eeuwig 26. Die meid wil ook wel een keer iets anders." ("From Friday, she’s back. And let’s be real, Eva van Dongen can’t stay 26 forever. She wants to try something different.")
The reactions from fans have been overwhelmingly positive. Many took to social media to express their approval of Eva's new look, highlighting how character growth correlates with physical change. One fan wrote, "Stiekem toch heel fijn zo'n verandering en dat het personage meegroeit" ("Secretly, it’s nice to have such change and see the character grow."). Another commented, "Staat Eva zo stoer" ("Eva looks so cool").
Besides the character evolutions, audiences can expect plenty of action, intrigue, and drama as Season 19 kicks off. Detective duo Romeo Sanders (Sergio IJssel) and Marion Dreessen (Oda Spelbos) will also be returning, working on new investigations, including the examination of criminal activities within the health sector.
The immediate question on everyone’s mind is how the characters will cope with the aftermath of the last season. Will Eva be able to track down Ellis and confront her past actions? How will Wolfs manage his recovery and the inquisitions surrounding the controversial shooting? Fans have been eagerly awaiting answers to all these questions as the new season promises to uphold the thrilling narrative style the series is known for.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Maastricht, the series combines crime, personal drama, and plenty of action, engaging audiences week after week. With this mix of elements, it’s no wonder Flikken Maastricht continues to capture the hearts of viewers for nearly two decades.
Starting this Friday, viewers can tune in every week to experience the gripping storylines and complex character dynamics as Flikken Maastricht reestablishes its place as one of the Netherlands' beloved crime dramas. Don't miss out on this season's excitement and intrigue—the countdown to the premiere is officially on!