Bert Bennett 28 July 1950 – 3 January 2026
On 3 January 2026, the sad news of Bert Bennett’s death was announced on the Mi Amigo 50 website: ‘It is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to a true radio legend. Bert Bennett (Bert Wijfjes) is no longer with us. For the generation that grew up with free radio, Bert was the familiar voice from the North Sea.
As the figurehead of Radio Mi Amigo, he brought the magic of the offshore radio stations to life; a pioneer who added colour to an unforgettable era in radio history.
I had the privilege of getting to know Bert closely during the Mi Amigo 40, 45 and 50 anniversary years. What will always stay with me is the man behind the microphone: an incredibly gentle and amiable man. A consummate professional with a wealth of know-how, who was always willing to share his passion and knowledge with a smile.
Bert, the waves of the North Sea sound a little quieter today. Thank you for the music, the stories and your warm personality. You will be greatly missed, but your voice will remain forever in the ether of our memories.
Rest in peace, Bert. Peter (Ad) from Mi Amigo 50.’
Of course, diehards also know Bert Bennett from the period in 1973 when he worked for Radio Caroline and made the switch to Radio Atlantis. From January 1974, he could be heard on Radio Mi Amigo. After his DJ period, Bert Wijfjes – his real name – worked for the regional broadcaster RTV Oost.
Robert van Dam (Marc Jacobs) wrote on Facebook:
BERT BENNETT, RADIO MAN THROUGH AND THROUGH, IS NO LONGER WITH US
It was with sadness that I heard today that my colleague Bert Bennett (real name: Bert Wijfjes) has passed away.
Bennett was one of the most distinctive voices of the free radio era and gained widespread fame as the figurehead of Radio Mi Amigo.
From the North Sea, he captivated listeners for years with his warm voice, craftsmanship, and love of music.
He played an important role in the history of offshore radio stations and left a lasting mark on radio culture in the Low Countries.
In addition to his work behind the microphone, Bert Bennett was appreciated by colleagues as an amiable and generous personality, always willing to share his knowledge and experience.
With his passing, the radio world has lost a pioneer, a ‘radio beast’ with enormous know-how.
We will never forget Bert’s voice and craftsmanship.
I wish Gea, his wife, much strength.
Rest in peace, Bert.