Dutch television presenter Matthijs van Nieuwkerk (59) is pulling the plug on popular daily chat show De Wereld Draait Door (the world keeps turning).

Van Nieuwkerk, who has come under fire repeatedly for his high pay cheque, has presented the prize-winning show since its launch in 2005. The last episode will be broadcast on March 27.

‘DWDD has been a fabulous adventure and many dreams have come true,’ Van Nieuwkerk said of his departure. ‘But I now want to shake things up. I am hoisting the sails.’

Despite suggestions that he may jump ship and go to the commercial sector, the presenter will remain working for public television and has plans for a new Saturday night show from next year.

Van Nieuwkerk earned €363,000 in 2018, but this should have been no more than €194,000 – the basic salary of a government minister – under government rules on private sector pay.