Jim Bakkum

Jim Bakkum (1987) was born a passionate performer, having been raised in a musical family. At age 15 he decides to take his chance on a breakthrough and applies for the first Dutch season of ‘Pop Idol’, not knowing what kind of phenomenal consequences this would have. In the midst of an unprecedented nation-wide hype, a record-breaking audience of 5.5 million viewers witness Jim emerge as the runner-up in the final round.



Five years and three ‘Pop Idol’ seasons later, Jim has continued to remain one of the most popular Dutch artists. His stunning looks appear on countless bedroom walls and have even been memorialized in Madame Tussauds Amsterdam. Being only 20 years old, this incredible multi-talented stud has worked hard to build up his truly impressive career.



Jim’s professional career therefore starts out with singing: from the very start in 2003 his (now four) albums and their singles bring him numerous number-1-hits and music awards, as well as several gold and platinum records. Not to mention countless performances before screaming crowds in packed venues, squares and stadiums. Jim officially writes pop history when two consecutive singles enter the main Dutch chart in the top 5.



His other talents start to emerge in 2005, as Jim pioneers again in a Dutch tv competition: ‘Dancing With The Stars’. Being the youngest contestant (18), he surprises millions of viewers with his unexpected dancing skills and quick ability to learn. Jim’s boundless ambition leads to a glorious victory, providing him with exciting new career opportunities.



At the same time several casting directors discover the acting-talent in Jim, leading to both supporting and lead parts in two highly rated tv police series and two successful feature films. He also lends his voice to a main character in the animated film ‘Asterix and the Vikings’.



Finally all his talents get the chance to be combined, as Jim is asked by Dutch musical mogul Albert Verlinde to play the lead part of Danny Zuko in a contemporary version of the original musical ‘Grease’. Although Jim has no previous experience in a musical, his performance is critically acclaimed and the show turns out to be an immense success. Its tour sells out completely, making it Verlinde’s most successful musical production to date.



The incredible success of ‘Grease’ and Jim’s simultaneous achievements in his music career, make him any casting director’s favorite. For 2008 Jim chooses to play the part of Nick Piazza in David De Silva’s musical ‘Fame’. Upon announcement of his involvement, box offices immediately start to sell out. When months later the show meets its extraordinary acclaim, Jim’s stardom in The Netherlands is forever secured.