Hostage reconstructs the harrowing true story of a 2022 Apple Store siege in Amsterdam, where a lone gunman took hostages in a desperate act that shocked the Netherlands. This tense, character-driven thriller unfolds in real time, alternating between the trapped civilians, the tactical police unit, and the unstable perpetrator. Directed by acclaimed Dutch filmmaker Paula van der Oest, the series offers a nuanced exploration of trauma, negotiation tactics, and the unpredictable nature of crisis situations.
Below is the complete cast breakdown, featuring the Netherlands’ finest acting talent bringing this chilling true story to life. Each performer underwent extensive research and training to authentically portray their real-life counterparts in this high-stakes drama.
Full Cast of iHostage
1. Matteo van der Grijn as Gunman
Born: September 16, 1981 in Amsterdam, Netherlands
Notable Works: The Resistance Banker (2018), The Forgotten Battle (2021), Mocro Maffia (2018-2023)
Matteo van der Grijn delivers a career-defining performance as the complex antagonist, portraying the gunman with unsettling humanity rather than caricature. The actor consulted with forensic psychologists to understand the perpetrator’s mental state, while carefully avoiding sensationalism. His portrayal captures the character’s oscillation between vulnerability and volatility.
Known for his intense character work in Dutch WWII dramas, van der Grijn here crafts a terrifying yet pitiable figure. His scenes with hostage Valerie (Jasmine Sendar) become the series’ emotional core, revealing how crisis distorts both captor and captive.
2. Loes Haverkort as Police Negotiator
Born: September 12, 1984 in Rotterdam, Netherlands
Notable Works: The Paradise Suite (2015), The East (2020), Flikken Maastricht (2007-2023)
Loes Haverkort stars as the lead police negotiator, bringing quiet authority to this high-pressure role. The actress trained with actual Dutch hostage negotiators, learning their verbal tactics and stress management techniques. Her character’s personal connection to the gunman adds gripping psychological layers.
Haverkort’s restrained performance captures the negotiator’s professional calm masking inner turmoil. Her telephone exchanges with van der Grijn’s character showcase masterful acting through voice alone in early episodes.
3. Jasmine Sendar as Valerie
Born: May 3, 1998 in Utrecht, Netherlands
Notable Works: Dirty Lines (2022), Anne+ (2018-2021), Ferry (2021)
Rising star Jasmine Sendar portrays Valerie, a young Apple employee who becomes the gunman’s primary point of contact. Sendar’s research included interviews with trauma survivors and retail workers who experienced armed robberies. Her performance evolves from initial terror to unexpected empathy throughout the ordeal.
The actress’ background in intimate character dramas (Anne+) informs her nuanced portrayal of survival psychology. Valerie’s improvised sign language communication with police outside provides some of the series’ most suspenseful moments.
4. Marcel Hensema as Police Chief
Born: November 12, 1968 in Groningen, Netherlands
Notable Works: The Dinner (2013), Tonio (2016), Undercover (2019-2023)
Veteran actor Marcel Hensema brings gravitas as the conflicted police chief balancing protocol with crisis realities. Hensema shadowed Amsterdam’s actual crisis management team, observing their command post dynamics during drills. His character’s political pressures mirror the real-life dilemma of maintaining public calm while negotiating privately.
Known for his morally complex roles, Hensema excels as a leader whose decisions carry life-or-death consequences. His clashes with tactical units over intervention timing create gripping tension.
Supporting Cast Spotlight
5. Louis Talpe as Tactical Commander
The Belgian actor (The Ardennes) trained with Dutch special forces to portray the elite unit’s leader, bringing physical precision to high-stakes breach scenarios.
6. Fockeline Ouwerkerk as Hostage Psychologist
The Mocro Maffia star consulted with trauma experts to authentically portray crisis counseling techniques during the siege.
7. Yasmin Karssing as Teenage Hostage
The young actress’ portrayal of silent terror during the 8-hour standoff is reportedly harrowing and awards-worthy.
8. Jouman Fattal as Rachelle
The Syrian-Dutch actress brings raw authenticity to an immigrant employee’s unique perspective during the crisis.
