Dutch Actor Cees Geel, Star of 'Simon,' Dies at 61

Cees Geel, the Dutch actor celebrated for his role as the hash dealer Simon, has died at the age of 61 following a heart attack. His portrayal of Simon, a tough character who befriends a gay man, contracts cancer, and chooses euthanasia, earned him critical acclaim, including a Golden Calf award and the Best Actor prize at the Tribeca Film Festival, presented by Robert De Niro.

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a tough man who becomes friends with a neat gay man, gets cancer, and commits euthanasia

Geel, who appeared in approximately 160 film, television, and theater productions, was often typecast due to his distinctive appearance. He believed his "character face" suited him for roles as criminals or detectives. However, Geel possessed a remarkable range, adept at portraying sensitive men, introverted characters, and comedic roles. His particular talent lay in gradually revealing the softer interior of seemingly tough exteriors, projecting an image of danger and wildness while simultaneously conveying a playful spirit.

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an intense actor with a considerable presence. Characteristic face, large body

Describing himself as an "intense actor with considerable presence," Geel attributed his grounded nature and ability to relativize situations to his upbringing in Schagen, a town in West Friesland. He noted his childhood was marked by modest circumstances, with his father driving an oil tanker and his mother being a housewife. As the youngest of four, with sisters at least twenty years his senior, and having lost a brother who drowned at age nine, Geel felt the weight of responsibility from a young age, which he believed may have fueled his drive for expression.

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If I am shocked by what I say myself, then it is good

Geel's early life included experiences like fighting at fairs and working in a bar, leading him to pursue acting. He began performing on stage in 1992, notably collaborating with director Koos Terpstra. His first significant film role came in 1998 with "De trip van Teetje," where he played a shady Rotterdam businessman. He also ventured into hosting a talk show.

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My down-to-earth nature and ability to relativize are typically Schaags. The love of looking and listening, staring at the sky. But my reservedness is also typical of Schagen