The highly anticipated new season of the popular Dutch television program, Ranking the Stars, is set to make waves not just for its returning host but for its drastically altered approach to humor and what is deemed acceptable. Paul de Leeuw, who has been at the helm of the show, has recently revealed significant changes to the content and tone, stating, “I think we’ve all grown. We know you can’t just say everything about color,” reflecting on the evolution of social norms surrounding comedy.
The 62-year-old presenter acknowledged during interviews leading up to the show’s return, which premieres on January 4, 2024, on RTL 4, how humor has had to adjust to contemporary audience sensibilities. He emphasized the program's attempt to steer clear of coarse or offensive remarks, particularly those related to sensitive topics like weight and appearance. “There was a comment made about weight, and it was immediately booed. You don't do those things anymore,” he explained, shedding light on the growing awareness of fatphobia and the necessity for respectful discourse.
De Leeuw also recounted a moment during filming where he confronted the participant targeted by the weight-related joke, illustrating the thoughtful discussions now integrated within the show's dynamic. “I went to her and said, ‘Do you want it to stay in or should we take it out?’ She said, ‘No, let it stay, because it shows what another thinks and how others react,’” shared de Leeuw. This nuanced conversation about the balance between humor and accountability underfoot reveals not only the host’s personal growth but also reflects broader societal shifts about body image and inclusivity.
Viewers can expect to see familiar faces as this installment of Ranking the Stars features renowned Dutch celebrities like Lilian Marijnissen, Glennis Grace, and Patty Brard, among others. With such notable personalities involved, some speculate on how these changes might affect the chemistry and banter fans have come to love from the show. Unlike previous seasons, where anything went, this new adaptation aims for more controlled and considerate exchanges. “There won’t be any hard cracks,” Paul remarked, indicating his effort to promote a positive environment on the program.
Critics of the changes, such as television insider Bart Ettekoven, have voiced concerns over the lack of spontaneity and the program’s edge. He referenced RTL's broader messaging during last summer’s Pride events, which broadcasted support for kindness and acceptance, and questioned whether it aligns with the playful yet provocative spirit of Ranking the Stars. “I see the boat coming at me during the Pride, with ‘Start loving, stop h ating, be sweet’ written huge on it. That doesn’t exactly fit with this program,” he stated.
Many will be watching with curiosity as the first episodes premiere this week, not just to see how the contestants interact but also to gauge audience reception of this new, sanitized format. While some fans may miss the show’s previous rawness, others might appreciate its modern twist aligning more closely with current societal values.
De Leeuw’s self-admission of also being 'overweight' adds another layer to his perspective on the shifts the show is undergoing, illustrating empathy within the framework of comedy. “I don’t know if it will stay in, but of course I am also overweight, so I have the same experience,” he concluded, hinting at the reality television framework encouraging more authentic and thoughtful dialogue.
From the cast and crew’s adjustments to shifts in humor expectations surrounding the show and the way conversations have changed, this new season of Ranking the Stars promises to create buzz not just for its familiar format but for its thoughtful engagement with humor’s role and responsibility. The expectation builds as viewers ready themselves for the premiere, curious to see how these changes will play out on-screen.