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Luc Appermont Backs Sven de Leijer as 'Blokken' Host: 'Best Replacement Possible'

From VRT NWS · () Dutch

Translated from Dutch, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

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  • Luc Appermont believes Sven de Leijer is an ideal replacement for Ben Crabbé as the host of the quiz show 'Blokken'.
  • De Leijer is praised for his ability to handle both the quiz mechanics and interact with contestants, along with his humor.
  • Appermont notes that hosting a daily quiz is demanding, requiring significant stamina and concentration, but trusts De Leijer's capabilities.

Veteran presenter Luc Appermont expresses strong confidence in Sven de Leijer's upcoming role as the new host of the Belgian quiz show 'Blokken,' succeeding the long-serving Ben Crabbé. Appermont, who himself possesses extensive experience in television presenting, stated that the VRT could not have found a better successor.

Sven can handle both the quiz part and the contestants. And he has humor.

— Luc AppermontPraising Sven de Leijer's suitability for hosting the quiz show 'Blokken'.

"Sven can handle both the quiz part and the contestants. And he has humor," Appermont remarked, highlighting De Leijer's suitability for the multifaceted demands of the show. He also cautioned that hosting a daily quiz is more challenging than it appears, likening it to "almost top-level sports" due to the required stamina and focus.

Ben Crabbé will depart 'Blokken' in June 2027 after a remarkable 33-year run since its inception in 1994, during which he became synonymous with the program. Sven de Leijer, who began his career at the show as a crowd warm-up artist, is set to take over in September 2027.

It is almost top-level sports.

— Luc AppermontDescribing the demanding nature of hosting a daily quiz show.

Appermont recalled his own experiences with VTM's game show 'Waagstuk,' where sometimes seven episodes were filmed in a single day. He described the intense pace and the mental toll it took, noting how presenters must maintain high energy levels and keep contestants engaged. "You have to keep the game strictly guided," he explained, contrasting it with the more flexible nature of talk shows where listening is paramount. Appermont believes De Leijer's ability to stay focused and adapt will serve him well.

We sometimes recorded 7 episodes in 1 day.

— Luc AppermontRecalling the intense filming schedule of his past game show 'Waagstuk'.

"They couldn't have looked for a better replacement than Sven," Appermont asserted. He advised De Leijer to remain authentic and not attempt to imitate anyone, emphasizing that his unique approach will be equally effective. "You should never want to imitate someone. That is not necessary either. I know Sven will do just as well in his own way."

They couldn't have looked for a better replacement than Sven.

— Luc AppermontExpressing his strong conviction about Sven de Leijer being the ideal successor.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by VRT NWS in Dutch. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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