On 15 July 2026, King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium welcomed centenarian actors Ray Verhaeghe and Annie Geeraerts to the Royal Palace of Brussels. The pair are still active and continue to appear in the long-running Belgian television soap Familie, which has been on the air for more than 35 years.
Ray Verhaeghe and Annie Geeraerts continue to appear in Familie despite their remarkable ages. They are recognised as the world's oldest active soap opera couple and hold a Guinness World Record for the achievement. Ray celebrated his 100th birthday in March, while Annie will turn 100 this August, making 2026 a milestone year for both actors.
Following the meeting, the King and Queen presented Ray Verhaeghe and Annie Geeraerts with a personalised photograph signed by both monarchs. The gift reflects a long-standing Belgian royal tradition, under which centenarians for whom a municipality submits a request receive a signed photograph from the King and Queen to commemorate their 100th birthday.







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