The Monday Morning Mogul: Navigating John de mol’s Early Week Grumpiness

john de Mol, the Dutch media magnate behind global hits like Deal or No Deal, isn’t always sunshine and roses, especially on Monday mornings.According to media journalist mark Koster, author of a book chronicling de Mol’s career, approaching the media mogul before he’s had his coffee is a risky proposition. This sentiment is echoed by TV expert Tina Nijkamp, who confirms the long-standing rumor of de Mol’s Monday morning disposition.

Koster suggests that surviving a Monday morning meeting in de Mol’s office is akin to weathering the storm of the entire television industry.But behind the gruff exterior lies a brilliant mind responsible for some of the most successful television formats in history.

From Suitcase Game to Global Phenomenon: The Rise of ‘Deal or No Deal’

The discussion of de Mol’s Monday morning temperament arose during a podcast conversation about the immense success of Miljoenenjacht, the Dutch game show whose suitcase element evolved into the international sensation known as Deal or No Deal. Nijkamp emphasizes the show’s global reach, stating:

In addition to weekend millionaires, it is one of the most sold quizzes ever. In a hundred countries, I believe that it will be broadcast.
Tina Nijkamp, TV Authority

Indeed, Deal or No Deal has been adapted in over 80 countries, showcasing its global appeal and the genius of its simple yet captivating format. The show’s enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to engage audiences worldwide, making it a cornerstone of international television.

the Unsung Hero: Dick de Rijk and the Genesis of the Format

While John de Mol’s name is synonymous wiht Deal or No Deal, the original concept came from the mind of Dick de Rijk. Koster explains that de Rijk’s attempts to collaborate on the book about de Mol were unsuccessful, but the story of how the format was pitched is a crucial part of the show’s history.

According to Koster, de Rijk braved de Mol’s infamous monday morning mood to present the idea. Koster inquired:

He came to pitch this to John de Mol on Monday morning and then he is always blood -chagrk, says Dick de Rijk. Can you confirm that incidentally?
Mark Koster, Media Journalist

While Nijkamp couldn’t definitively confirm the blood-chagry nature of de mol’s mornings, she acknowledged the prevailing narrative.

From cigarettes to Success: The Anatomy of a Deal

The story goes that after consuming a notable number of cigarettes,de Mol was finally convinced by de Rijk’s pitch. The game was even tested with de Mol’s wife,Els,that evening. The original suitcase, valued at a mere ten guilders, was later sold for a staggering 350,000 guilders, highlighting the show’s incredible journey from humble beginnings to international acclaim.

Koster summarizes the anecdote, painting a vivid picture of the media mogul:

So John de mol smokes 60 cigarettes, is blood -chagrise on Monday morning and it is in bed with Els in the evening and plays the game. I think that is great that the big John de Mol … that Dick de Rijk has sold that game to him.
Mark Koster, media Journalist

A Dutch Triumph: Celebrating innovation in Television

The success of Deal or No Deal is not just a personal triumph for de Mol and de Rijk, but a testament to Dutch ingenuity in the world of television. The show’s global impact underscores the power of innovative formats and the ability of television to transcend cultural boundaries.

Koster concludes with a sense of national pride:

This is Dutch glory.
Mark Koster, Media Journalist