C8 and NRJ12, two well-known French television channels, are set to close down for good on February 28, 2025, marking a significant moment in the country's media history. This unprecedented decision, announced by Arcom, the French audiovisual regulator, results from various infractions related to broadcasting standards, particularly linked to C8's emblematic talk show, 'Touche pas à mon poste' (TPMP) hosted by Cyril Hanouna.
On the night of February 28, at 23:59, both channels will cease transmission, leaving behind empty frequencies rather than terminating broadcasts with the traditional black screen. Instead, viewers will see continuous informational signals until new channels take their place, which will occur later this year.
The closure of C8 has stirred both controversy and support, with political figures from various parties chiming in. For nearly two decades, C8 has been notable for its outspoken programming and controversial content, especially from its flagship show TPMP. Over the years, Hanouna’s antics have garnered significant attention, both positive and negative. Notably, his show has been criticized for numerous infractions, leading to significant fines totaling approximately €7.6 million due to instances of homophobia, sexism, and breaches of private life.
The relationship between Hanouna and his audience has been described as symbiotic, with viewer loyalty often cited as helping maintain his ratings through turbulent times. On February 24, one loyal viewer expressed desperation over the channel's impending closure, saying, "What are we going to do at night? Play dominoes?" reflecting the disconnect between the viewing public and regulatory decisions.
Despite opposition, Arcom remains firm on its decision made back in July 2024, not to renew licenses for C8, as well as NRJ12, citing strict compliance to broadcasting obligations. Arcom found C8 consistently failed to uphold standards of content integrity and respect for viewers, prompting the latest move.
A group of politicians came to Hanouna's defense, framing the non-renewal of C8's license as part of broader political machinations aimed at suppressing free speech and restricting media diversity. Critics argue this move reflects what they perceive as authoritarian tendencies within the government, as they expressed empathy for Hanouna, claiming his work created tension with parts of the political elite.
On his last airing Thursday evening, Hanouna plans to host grand farewell programming, promising exciting content including guest appearances from his past collaborators and emotional tributes. Viewers will be invited to share their questions live, allowing them to engage directly with the host during this final transmission.
While NRJ12 has no special programming to mark its exit, C8's dramatic closure is expected to attract significant viewership. Although exact future plans remain ambiguous for Hanouna, rumors suggest he may transition his brand to new networks including Canal Plus and possibly M6. The ultimate reveal of his new television home is set to create intrigue during his last program.
Post-February 28, the former channels will not remain dormant indefinitely. The frequencies currently held by C8 and NRJ12 will undergo reorganization. Channels T18 and Ouest France TV will launch on these channels, with T18 presenting itself as more of an “anti-C8,” aiming for more politically balanced programming.
The implementation of this new lineup will occur across various timelines; T18 is scheduled to commence broadcasts on June 6, and Ouest France TV will join later on September 1. The reorganization of channel numbers is also set to take place, as identified by Arcom’s strategic framework, enabling viewers to navigate through programming more efficiently.
Gulli, the children’s channel currently occupying channel 18, will fill the void left by NRJ12’s departure. Other channels such as France 2, France 3, and LCI will also shift to create more logical channel placements, as articulated by the regulator.
This media shakeup invites questions about what lies next for audiences accustomed to the brash, controversial content offered by C8. The closure may also signify shifting tides within media consumption and approval, reflecting the regulatory scrutiny faced by channels previously considered untouchable risk-takers.
The closure of C8 is not merely about losing programming; it raises broader questions about media accountability, the responsibilities of broadcasters, and how entertainment shapes public discourse. This important transition period may redefine the viewer experience, marking the end of one era even as it promises the potential beginning of another. With Cyril Hanouna poised to re-emerge on screens again soon, viewers will be eagerly awaiting both his next steps and the fresh programming to fill the newly vacated frequencies.