The End of an Era: Remembering Femke Boersma, Actress and Political Wife
Femke Boersma, the Dutch actress and wife of prominent politician Frits Bolkestein, has died at the age of 90, her family announced last week. Her life unfolded in two distinct acts: a celebrated career on stage and screen, followed by a role as a quiet, yet influential, figure alongside one of the Netherlands’ most recognizable political personalities.
A Childhood Shaped by War
Born in Amsterdam in 1935, Boersma’s early life was profoundly impacted by World War II. Her parents, staunchly left-wing, sheltered Jewish people in their home. In 1943, they were betrayed, leading to the arrest of her father and the deportation of the women they were hiding. This traumatic experience deeply affected Boersma, and conversations with her future husband, Frits Bolkestein, often returned to the subject of the war.
From Stage to Spotlight
Boersma’s talent for acting became apparent early on. Spotted for her appearance – described as having blonde hair and a slightly surprised expression – she landed a role in the film Het wonderlijke leven van Willem Parel at the age of 18. She then attended the Amsterdam Theatre School, excelling in her studies and earning a contract with the Nederlandse Comedie.
Her breakthrough role came in the Dutch production of Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, where she played Honey. The production was a resounding success, playing to sold-out audiences for three years.
A Shift in Focus
After a decade with the Nederlandse Comedie, Boersma moved to Zuidelijk Toneel/Globe, and later co-founded the women’s theatre group Theater ’80. She likewise appeared in films like Wat zien ik!? and Een vlucht regenwulpen, and television series such as Medisch Centrum West. However, her acting career began to wane as she reconnected with Frits Bolkestein.
An Unlikely Partnership
Boersma and Bolkestein had a brief relationship in their youth, interrupted by Bolkestein’s studies abroad. They reunited decades later, and despite their differing political views – she remained on the left, while he was a prominent VVD (conservative) politician – they married in 1988, coinciding with Bolkestein’s appointment as Minister of Defence. She retained her own name, a decision Bolkestein supported, stating his belief in a woman’s right to maintain her identity.
Those who knew them described them as opposites who complemented each other. Bolkestein was often perceived as reserved, while Boersma was known for her warmth and approachability. She helped to soften his public image, and he valued her insights.
Life Alongside a Political Figure
As Bolkestein’s career progressed, including a period as a European Commissioner, Boersma played a supportive role, hosting dinners and building relationships with other political figures. She remained a grounding force for Bolkestein, and he often sought her advice. While she found it challenging to adjust to life in Brussels when Bolkestein took his position with the European Commission, she eventually returned to the Netherlands with him.
The couple spent their later years in Laren, where Bolkestein passed away in 2025, just weeks before Boersma’s own death.
FAQ
- What was Femke Boersma known for? She was a Dutch actress known for her roles in theatre, film, and television, and later as the wife of politician Frits Bolkestein.
- What was Femke Boersma’s relationship with Frits Bolkestein like? Despite their differing political views, they shared a deep connection and supported each other throughout their lives.
- What was a significant role in Boersma’s acting career? Her portrayal of Honey in the Dutch production of Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? was a major success.
Did you recognize? Boersma’s father sheltered Jewish people during World War II, an experience that profoundly shaped her life.
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