Kabouter Plop Replaces K3 After Hanne Verbruggen Starts Early Maternity Leave
“Geen paniek, Hanne stelt het goed! Alleen is een energiek K3-optreden geven op dit moment geen verantwoordelijke keuze,” the group announced on social media, as reported by HBVL on November 7, 2026.
K3 will miss its scheduled performance at ‘The Party Fout XXL’ in Apeldoorn, Netherlands. Hanne Verbruggen, 32, is pregnant with her second child and has begun her maternity leave ahead of schedule.
“Ik vind het enorm jammer om de fans teleur te stellen, maar sommige dingen in het leven zijn nu eenmaal te belangrijk om onnodige risico’s te nemen. Een gezond kindje op de wereld zetten maakt daar zeker deel van uit,” Verbruggen stated regarding the sudden cancellation.
Kabouter Plop Steps in for Saturday Night Concert
Studio 100 character Kabouter Plop will step in to cover the absence.
Former group member Klaasje Meijer takes over beginning November 13, stepping in for Verbruggen much as she did during the summer when Marthe De Pillecyn welcomed her second child.
Josje Huisman also makes a brief return to the trio in December. She will perform alongside the group during the ‘Studio 100 Singalong in symphony’ concerts.
Frequently Asked Questions About the K3 Schedule Changes
Why is Hanne Verbruggen starting maternity leave early?
Verbruggen is pregnant with her second child and decided that delivering an energetic K3 performance was no longer a responsible choice, prioritizing her pregnancy health instead.
Who is replacing Hanne Verbruggen for upcoming shows?
Kabouter Plop fills in for the immediate appearance, while former member Klaasje Meijer assumes the role permanently starting November 13. Josje Huisman will also cover the December ‘Studio 100 Singalong in symphony’ dates.
Have past K3 members substituted for maternity leave before?
Yes. Klaasje Meijer previously stepped in to replace Marthe De Pillecyn during her maternity leave this past summer.
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