Why is René le Blanc called "the Dutch Engelbert Humperdinck"?

Short answer: René le Blanc is called "the Dutch Engelbert Humperdinck" because of his deep romantic voice, his classic showman charisma and, let's be honest, that unmistakable head of hair. The nickname started among fans and viewers and has become a badge of honour.

Who is Engelbert Humperdinck anyway?

Engelbert Humperdinck is the British crooner legend behind world hits like Release Me and The Last Waltz, millions of records sold, immaculate suits and a voice like velvet. That is exactly the archetype people recognise in René: unapologetic romance and old-school showmanship.

The similarities

• The voice: deep, warm and made for love songs like If I Tell You and Ware Liefde.
• The looks: the full dark hair and sharp suits, the resemblance is striking enough that fans enjoy putting photos side by side.
• The attitude: both take their craft seriously, and themselves just seriously enough.

What does René think of it?

He wears the nickname with visible pleasure. Best of all: it is not a copycat story. René sings his own songs, in three languages, and built his own universe around them, from Dutch TV shows to the viral drinking game René Le Bak. Engelbert is the comparison; René is the original from Arnhem.

Want more? Read the complete biography with all the hits and TV appearances.