René Froger has commented publicly on Gerard Joling's exit from De Toppers for the first time, telling De Telegraaf that the situation remains too recent for him to address in detail. The singer described the matter as "too fresh, too close," according to the newspaper.
Joling's departure has generated a series of reports in the Dutch press. In an interview with De Telegraaf, he explained his reasons for leaving the group, saying the situation "did not have to happen this way." He also spoke about frustrations behind the scenes at De Toppers, NU reported.
One specific grievance concerned his role in the group's concerts. Joling said he spent 29 minutes waiting beneath the stage during a show, according to AD.nl — a sign, in his view, that his part in the performances had become too small.
The aftermath has also touched Froger personally. RTL.nl reported that following Joling's exit, the Toppers sought each other out at the home of Froger, who has been ill.
Froger's brief reaction suggests the group is still working through the fallout, and he has not indicated when, or whether, he will say more. Joling, for his part, has already given his account of the reasons behind the split.
What to watch next: whether Froger makes a fuller statement once he has recovered, and how De Toppers plan to proceed without Joling.
