IN CONVERSATION WITH ROBBERT RODENBURG

interview by SAMO ŠAJN

Robbert Rodenburg is a Dutch actor, presenter, and content creator. He began his career acting in Brugklas and Spangas before launching his award-winning YouTube series Open Kaart, later expanding into Open Casa. He also became the youngest winner of Expeditie Robinson and has built a strong presence in media, working on creative projects and collaborations with top brands.

blazer and gilet DOLCE&GABBANA
shirt and tie ATELIER MUNRO
underwear HEMEN BIARRITZ

You started your career as an actor in Brugklas and later in Spangas. What initially drew you to acting, and how did those early experiences shape your career?

From a young age, I loved performing and quickly realized acting was all I ever wanted to do. I signed up for auditions as a child, facing many rejections before landing Spangas, a big youth TV show in the Netherlands. Entertaining people has always been something I enjoy, creating something people love to watch.

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blazer and trousers BALENCIAGA
shirt and tie ATELIER MUNRO
sunglasses LOUIS VUITTON

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trousers LOUIS VUITTON
shoes LOEWE
belt ISABEL MARANT
watch ROLEX

Your YouTube series Open Kaart has been widely successful and even won a Televizier-Ster award. What inspired you to create this format, and did you expect it to resonate so well with audiences?

The idea was born on a beach in Thailand with my best friend, Daan, now my business partner. I wanted a platform where people could take their time to share real stories. You never expect success, but winning the Televizier-Ster was a dream come true. Creating Open Kaart remains one of my favorite things to do.

You expanded Open Kaart into Open Casa, filmed in an Italian villa. How does this new setting influence the interviews, and what has been the biggest challenge in producing this?

The first season in Italy was self-financed, rare in Dutch productions that usually have large budgets. The enthusiastic response made us immediately want a second season. We pitched it to Amazon Prime Video, who believed in the format. Their trust allowed us to elevate the show, and I can’t wait for people to see the new season premiering February 28.

You became the youngest winner of Expeditie Robinson. What was the most challenging part of surviving on the island, and how did the experience change you?

It’s an experience I’d never want to miss, but also something I wouldn’t do again. I felt homesickness for the first time, not seeing or speaking to my friends and family for 37 days was really difficult. But it made me more grateful for my surroundings and the people in my life.

underwear HEMEN BIARRITZ
sunglasses LOUIS VUITTON
belt ISABEL MARANT
boots EMPORIO ARMANI

With a massive following on Instagram and TikTok, how do you approach content creation, and what role does authenticity play in your online presence?

For me, the most important thing is that I feel good about everything I create. I want people to see the real me. In the past, I made mistakes and learned how crucial it is to stay true to myself despite everything.

You’ve worked with brands like BOSS, Armani, and McDonald's. What do you look for in a brand partnership, and how do you maintain a balance between commercial and personal content?

I am very selective when it comes to commercial collaborations. Many creators say that, but I truly try to work only with brands that are a 100% match. I want to showcase my life and work authentically, and if opportunities arise with brands I genuinely connect with, that’s an amazing addition.

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shorts EMPORIO ARMANI

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top DRIES VAN NOTEN
sunglasses LOUIS VUITTON

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blazer and gilet DOLCE&GABBANA
shirt and tie ATELIER MUNRO
underwear HEMEN BIARRITZ
shoes LOEWE

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blazer ACNE STUDIOS
shirt ATELIER MUNRO
trousers FILIPPA K
tie CHARVET

You’re also hosting live shows and aftertalks. How does presenting compare to acting and interviewing, and do you have a preference?

It’s the combination of everything that makes it exciting. One moment I’m filming a movie abroad, the next I’m hosting a reality show, and then I’m creating my own projects with full creative control. Pushing myself out of my comfort zone keeps me motivated. Ultimately, I love telling stories and connecting with people, no matter the form.

You’ve been open about discussing mental health. Why is this an important topic for you, and how do you use your platform to raise awareness and support others?

I’ve personally struggled with mental health issues and notice there’s still a stigma, especially among men. That’s why I find it so important to create openness and start the conversation. Everyone can relate to these issues in some way, and removing the discomfort around the topic is key.

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trousers and shoes LOEWE

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suit FERRARI
belt ISABEL MARANT

You are not only the face of many projects but also involved in concept creation and production. Can you walk us through your creative process when developing new content?

Every idea usually starts over a glass of wine. Conversations often spark something where I think, “I need to make a show about this.” When I work with Daan, we brainstorm while having drinks, and ideas naturally emerge. We act quickly and don’t let opportunities slip away. Expanding existing shows like Open Kaart is easier now since our team and process work like a well-oiled machine.

You’ve achieved success in acting, presenting, and digital content creation. What’s next for you? Any upcoming projects or dreams you still want to pursue?

2025 will be a busy year, I have a lot planned. Right now, my full focus is on the Open Casa release on February 28, which feels like a dream come true. Beyond that, I want to continue expanding Open Kaart and Open Casa and hope for more opportunities with Prime Video. More than anything, I want to keep telling stories. I’m always full of ideas, and I can’t wait to see which ones come to life.

TEAM CREDITS:

talent ROBBERT RODENBURG 
photography DION BAL
styling KOEN T HENDRIKS
hair and makeup ALEXANDER VAN DER HEIDE
casting MICHIEL VAN MAAREN
photography assistance EUGENE BERKOVSKI and ELIZA KANIA
editing TIMI LETONJA
interview SAMO ŠAJN
cover design ARTHUR ROELOFFZEN