Dutch Soap Opera Scores Three-Year Renewal

The beloved dutch soap opera, “Goede Tijden, Slechte Tijden” (GTST), meaning “Good Times, Bad Times,” has secured a three-year contract extension, ensuring its continued run on RTL 4. This renewal marks a significant victory for the long-running series, which is nearing its 35th anniversary next year.

The show’s enduring popularity hasn’t always been a given. A particularly low-rated summer cliffhanger in 2019 raised concerns about the show’s future. Caroline de Bruijn, who plays Janine, offered insight into the challenges: “Because GTST has been around for so long, people may think that it will naturally always continue to exist. It now seems very similar, but we do work for a commercial channel. So if the program were to become unprofitable then it will die.”

However, GTST has rebounded strongly. The show now boasts over a million viewers per episode, a testament to its enduring appeal. Next Monday marks a major milestone: the airing of the 7,000th episode.[Insert video embed here]

Erik de vogel, who plays Ludo and is married to de Bruijn in real life, expressed his enthusiasm for the show’s continued success. “The longer I do it, the more interesting it becomes,” he shared candidly. The couple, together for over 25 years, met on the set of GTST.

The renewal is a testament to the show’s ability to adapt and connect with audiences. While the show’s longevity is remarkable, its continued success in a competitive television landscape highlights its enduring appeal and the dedication of its cast and crew. For U.S. viewers seeking a glimpse into a long-running international soap opera success story, GTST’s renewal offers a compelling narrative of perseverance and audience engagement.

GTST airs Monday thru Thursday at 8 p.m. on RTL 4 and is available a week in advance on Videoland (Note: Videoland availability may be limited outside of the Netherlands).

“Goede Tijden, Slechte Tijden” (GTST), which means “Good Times, Bad Times”, is the longest-running Dutch soap opera. [1][3]

The show revolves around the lives of the families Alberts, Sanders, De Jong, Van Houten and Bouwhuis. [1][3]

It takes place in the fictional town of Meerdijk. [1][3] these कथन are based on the provided searches and is nearing its 35th anniversary in 2025. the show airs on RTL 4.