Kees Driehuis (8 December 1951 – 29 October 2019) was a Dutch television presenter known largely for his long association with the quiz programme Per Seconde Wijzer. Born in Amsterdam, he became a familiar face in the Netherlands through steady, professional presenting that spanned decades. Over his career with the quiz show he presented 794 episodes across 29 years, a tenure that made him closely identified with the programme.
Career and presenting style
Driehuis was widely recognised for a calm, measured delivery and clear enunciation, qualities valued in quiz and factual television. His role required balancing the tension of competitive gameplay with impartial adjudication: guiding contestants, explaining rules and keeping the pace of the show while maintaining fairness. These attributes helped Per Seconde Wijzer remain consistent in tone across many seasons.
The show: Per Seconde Wijzer
Per Seconde Wijzer is a knowledge-based television quiz that tests contestants on a wide range of subjects under time pressure. The format emphasises quick recall and strategic use of seconds or time-related resources; as presenter, Driehuis's task was to frame questions, manage the countdown aspects and maintain the rhythm that gives the programme its title — translated roughly as "Per Second Wiser." His long stewardship contributed to the programme's recognition in Dutch popular culture.
Driehuis's prominence derived less from flamboyance and more from reliability. In a broadcasting environment where hosts can be transient, his steady presence provided continuity. Colleagues and viewers often cited his professionalism and the unobtrusive manner in which he kept the competition moving.
Kees Driehuis died on 29 October 2019 in Amsterdam of bladder cancer; he was 67. His death was noted across Dutch media as the passing of a broadcaster associated with one of the country's enduring quiz formats. Details about his private life were kept relatively out of the public eye, and remembrances tended to focus on his television work.
Legacy and notable facts
- Born: 8 December 1951, Amsterdam.
- Best known as presenter of Per Seconde Wijzer for 29 years.
- Presented a total of 794 episodes of that quiz show.
- Died: 29 October 2019 in Amsterdam of bladder cancer.
- Remembered for a calm, professional presenting style and long service to Dutch television.