Dutch radio personality Ruud de Wild abruptly left his display on NPO Radio 2 following a barrage of threats stemming from a controversial interview conducted weeks prior with documentary filmmaker Julie Ng.
De Wild detailed receiving a “wave of threats” including disturbing messages wishing harm to him and his family, prompted by the interview with Ng, director of the documentary Meer dan Babi Pangang.
The radio host stated that the threats crossed a line when his children were involved, leading to his decision to leave the broadcast mid-air.
Colleagues were reportedly unaware of De Wild’s intention to leave the studio, with sidekick Gijs Hakkert taking over the remainder of the show.
The Controversy: Meer dan Babi Pangang and Accusations of Bias
The interview centered around Ng’s documentary, which explores the cultural identity of Chinese-Dutch individuals. During the broadcast, De Wild and co-host Lauren Verster reportedly used stereotypical jokes referencing Chinese food, specifically loempia and babi pangang sauce.
Following listener criticism, Ng was invited back for a follow-up conversation. Ng expressed her shock at the tone of the initial interview. De Wild and Verster both issued apologies, with Verster calling it “a lesson learned.”
The documentary’s creators subsequently filed a complaint with the NPO, alleging “an institutional, systematic and cultural bias” towards Asians within Dutch broadcasting.
Escalation and Responses
The NPO Ombudsman, Margo Smit, stated she could not determine if the interview was discriminatory but acknowledged the use of “crude stereotypes” and expressed regret.
The filmmakers requested a public apology from De Wild and Verster, as well as a public screening of the documentary followed by a discussion for PowNed’s leadership and staff.
The filmmakers condemned the threats against De Wild as “completely unacceptable” and “more than scandalous,” emphasizing the need for constructive dialogue.
PowNed’s Stance and Future of the Broadcast
De Wild maintained he did not intend to be racist, stating the interview “did not go as it should have.”
PowNed chairman Dominique Weesie declared the filmmakers would “never” receive an apology, characterizing the situation as a joke that was misinterpreted and arguing against the use of the term “racism.”
De Wild will be replaced by Eddy Keur for the remainder of the week, with PowNed anticipating his return next Monday.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Meer dan Babi Pangang about? It’s a documentary exploring the cultural identity of Chinese-Dutch individuals.
- Why did Ruud de Wild leave his show? He received death threats following an interview related to the documentary.
- What is PowNed’s position on the matter? PowNed does not intend to issue an apology.
