Boszhard, who won the one-off Willem Ruis Award in 2011, acts as producer of the project, which is still looking for a channel for broadcast.
Ruis (photo) is one of the most famous presenters in Dutch television history. He made programs such as The Willem Ruis Show, 5 versus 5 and the Sterrenshow. He died in Spain in 1986 at the age of 41 from cardiac arrest.
His daughter Suus Ruis says that the series is largely inspired by her father's life. She is involved in the project as a writer. "The series is about my father's work and shows his personal and inner world," she tells De Telegraaf.
It is not yet known who will play the leading role. Xander van Vledder previously played the leading role in a musical about the life of the quiz master.
Just like in the Patty series, about the life of diva Patty Brard, the episodes are full of highs and lows.
Just like Patty, Willem led an eventful life. For example, his father did not recognize him as a son, his marriage failed and his health regularly failed him. The latter is said to have been partly caused by excessive alcohol and drug use.
“I am a producer here and not a player,” Boszhard clarifies. The project has not yet been sold, but that does not detract from the enthusiasm. “Everywhere I go, I explain that we must honor our icons by continuing to tell their stories. You learn more from real life than from any fictional series. I don't know who will take the plunge with us, but I am eager to jump. You are put on earth to make your dreams come true, and this is one of those dreams.”
