beloved belgian icon margriet hermans dies at 72 after brief battle with rare cancer
Brussel, woensdag, 3 juni 2026.
Belgian cultural figure Margriet Hermans has died at 72. Her daughter Celien confirmed the death following a sudden diagnosis of neuroendocrine carcinoma in late April 2026. Despite starting chemotherapy, the aggressive cancer progressed rapidly. Hermans chose euthanasia, surrounded by family. She remained deeply concerned for loved ones until the end. A celebrated singer, she rose to fame in 1987 with hits like ‘Een vriend’. She hosted popular TV shows including ‘Margriet’ and appeared on panels such as ‘Zeg eens euh!’. She later served in the Belgian Senate. In 2022, she saw a career revival through music programs. Her scheduled performance at Westmalle Feest with daughter Celien was cancelled. Singer Laura Lynn will now appear in her place. Celien continues to perform, honoring her mother’s final wish. Hermans leaves behind a husband and daughter.
beloved belgian icon margriet hermans dies at 72 after brief battle with rare cancer
Belgian cultural figure Margriet Hermans has died at the age of 72, her daughter Celien Hermans confirmed on social media [1]. The cause was a rare and aggressive form of cancer known as neuro-endocrine carcinoma, diagnosed only in late April 2026 [1]. Despite beginning chemotherapy, treatment proved insufficient due to rapid progression [1]. Facing severe pain and diminished quality of life, Hermans opted for euthanasia, a legal practice in Belgium [1]. She passed away on Wednesday, 3 June 2026, remaining composed and caring toward those around her until the end [1].
a multifaceted career spanning decades
Hermans broke through in 1987 with the song ‘In slow motion,’ launching a successful singing career [1]. She became widely recognized across Flanders and the Netherlands for hits like ‘Een vriend’ and ‘Alle mooie mannen zijn zo lelijk’ [1]. Beyond music, she hosted the long-running talk show ‘Margriet’ from 1989 to 1994 [1]. She also co-hosted popular panel games including ‘Zeg eens euh!’ and ‘De drie wijzen’ [1]. Later, she entered politics, serving as a member of the Belgian Senate during interim periods [1]. Her return to music in 2022 included winning the Radio 2 Zomerhit with ‘Lekker blijven hangen’ [1].
final days and legacy
Shortly before her death, Hermans was scheduled to perform alongside her daughter Celien at the Westmalle Feest on 7 June 2026 [2]. Due to her illness, all performances were canceled [2]. However, Celien decided to go ahead with her appearance to fulfill what she described as her mother’s wish [2]. Schlager singer Laura Lynn replaced Margriet Hermans on the event lineup, adding support to the program [2]. Hermans is survived by her husband Frank and daughter Celien, who paid tribute to her strength and love [1]. Tributes continue to emerge across the Benelux region.