Torkjell Berulfsen, renowned Norwegian radio host, passes away at 81

Torkjell Berulfsen, a well-known Norwegian radio host and television personality, passed away on Wednesday evening at the age of 81 following a prolonged illness. His family has confirmed the news, allowing NRK to report on his death.

Throughout his career, Berulfsen hosted some of Norway’s most popular radio programs, including “Nitimen,” “Reiseradioen,” and “Nattradioen.” He later transitioned to television, where he created several entertainment shows for NRK. His television breakthrough came with the hit program “Edle dråper,” a show that blended travel with education on various types of alcohol.

Berulfsen also hosted shows such as “Dykk i arkivet” (Diving into the Archive) and “Berulfsens fargerike” (Berulfsen’s Colorful), for which he won a Gullruten award for best host in 2007. A trained philologist, Berulfsen began his career at NRK in 1982 and continued until his retirement in 2015.

Colleagues described Berulfsen as an exceptionally generous and knowledgeable individual, with one noting that he was like a walking encyclopedia of NRK. He was deeply invested in language, often playing creatively with words and constructs in his programs.

Berulfsen frequently collaborated with his close friend Knut Borge, and together they created beloved content that resonated with audiences. Following Borge’s passing in 2017, Berulfsen expressed profound grief over the loss of his friend.

His legacy as an inspiring figure in Norwegian broadcasting will be remembered fondly by both fans and colleagues alike.