Dutch actor Peter Faber, a cornerstone of the golden age of Dutch cinema, passed away on August 6 at the age of 82. His family confirmed the news in an emotional statement on Facebook.
Career highlights
Faber achieved widespread acclaim both in the Netherlands and internationally across a career spanning over five decades. He starred in Paul Verhoeven's internationally acclaimed World War II epic Soldier of Orange and Max Havelaar, a classic adaptation about Dutch colonial rule.
His career break came with the lead role in the 1976 movie Max Havelaar. A few years later, he appeared in the 1977 epic war drama A Bridge Too Far, which also starred James Bond legend Sean Connery.
Family tribute
In a touching tribute on social media, Faber's family wrote: "Yesterday we said goodbye to our father. The past weeks have been intense and sad, but also special: we were able to spend so much time with him. Until the very last moment, he remained himself."
They added: "Peter said 'yes' to life wholeheartedly. He was undeniably optimistic, curious, wanted to understand, and kept marvelling at everything. Even as his body failed him, he kept paying attention to the people around him. For the nurses, the doctors, his companions, and for us. The OLVG felt like a warm place for him, and he was genuinely grateful for the loving care he received."
"Even in his final days, he remained the actor he always was: he carried poems, sang songs for his companions, and knew how to put a smile on faces. Humor he never lost," the family continued.
Legacy and foundation
Faber began his career as a co-founder of Het Werkteater in the early 1970s, an avant-garde Amsterdam collective that revolutionised Dutch theatre. His talent on stage earned him the prestigious Louis d'Or, the highest Dutch theatre accolade for a male actor, twice.
He also starred in Ciske de Rat (1984), one of the most famous films in Dutch history. His final feature film, Sweet Dreams (2023), was selected as the Dutch entry for the 2024 Academy Awards.
Born in Germany in 1943, Faber grew up in Amsterdam-Noord and overcame a turbulent youth, including spending time homeless as a teenager. His experience inspired him to establish the Peter Faber Foundation in 2008, which works to empower at-risk youth.
Faber is survived by his long-term partner, Ineke ten Cate, and his five children: Jasper, Jesse, Daan, Danja, and Sam. A public memorial will be held at Het Zonnehuis in Amsterdam-Noord on Monday, August 10, 2026, between 10am and midday.
