RTL 4 currently does not want to talk to Caroline Tensen (59) about a new TV contract. “Two years ago I would have collapsed from such a statement, now I can deal with it better.”
It is an open secret in Hilversum that Caroline Tensen is perhaps the most afraid of being replaced by the young guard of all TV stars of age. For example, she has always made sure that she never, ever had to be replaced in her most important program: the game show One against 100.
Retirement is approaching
Even when Caroline fell off her e-bike and her face was completely black and blue, she refused to let anyone else take over the presentation. She then presented the program with twelve layers of make-up and a thick lip. “In all those years I have never been replaced. Hopefully that will never happen at all,” she said at the time.
Nevertheless, the years are now counting and Caroline sees her retirement age getting closer and closer. Fortunately, the presenter has started to put things into perspective a bit more in recent years and she has also got a second job, namely that of a menopause expert.
RTL 4 does not want to talk
When asked if she still has a contract with RTL 4, Caroline replies in the Nouveau: “No, only with the Postcode Lottery. RTL only wants to talk about the future after the series that is now being broadcast. Two years ago I would have collapsed from such a statement, now I can deal with it better.”
Of course it means that Caroline is becoming less and less relevant, because otherwise RTL will be a bit more on top. She remains confident: “Fortunately, one against 100 scores very well and many colleagues now only receive a program contract. Moreover, because of my experience, I can do more than someone who has just come to watch.”
Younger competition
Caroline hopes that RTL 4 will continue to choose her for that reason and will not exchange her for a younger type like Leonie ter Braak. “I’ll stick to that then.”
It remains a sensitive point for her. “Twenty years ago I was asked in interviews how I would feel if the new generation of presenters took over. I think I find that very difficult,’ I answered honestly. The time has now come and it is no longer self-evident that you can go through another season.”
‘No longer up for grabs’
At some point Caroline will have to make room, she realizes. When you are young, you get a contract for five years and all kinds of programs are devised around you. In August I will make a nice new program in addition to One against 100, but it is no longer up for grabs.”
Does she still have to work for her money? “I actually think that’s an annoying question. No, of course it doesn’t. But I’m also used to a certain lifestyle. So if I want to continue it, I have to keep going.”