Peter de Bie, a prominent figure in Dutch radio broadcasting, has died at the age of 75. He passed away on Tuesday, his birthday, after battling a serious illness for several years and choosing euthanasia.

De Bie was a respected radio personality known for his sharp wit and dedication to the medium. He is remembered for his long-standing career, which included roles at various broadcasting organizations and his popular program “Nieuwsweekend.”

His career began at the Rono, the broadcaster for the northern provinces, in 1972, after studying labor and organizational psychology. He then moved to Hilversum, where he worked on programs such as “Voer voor vogels” at the KRO and “Popdonder plus” and “Stand van zaken” at the Vara. In 1985, he received the Zilveren Reissmicrofoon, a prestigious award for radio makers.

De Bie was known for his strong opinions and willingness to challenge his employers. He had conflicts with several broadcasting organizations, including Avrotros in 2018, over the future of “Nieuwsshow.” In an interview in 2022, he acknowledged his uncompromising nature, stating that he was never afraid to speak his mind.

His death comes shortly after the passing of his wife, Dieuwertje Blok, in early March.