French television channels C8 and NRJ12 officially ceased broadcasting as of midnight on February 28, 2025. This closure follows the decision by the Arcom (the French audiovisual regulatory authority), which did not renew the frequencies for the two channels. This decision was validated by the Council of State on February 19, 2025, confirming the channels would be replaced by LCP/Public Sénat and Gulli on June 6, 2025.
During their last broadcasting hours, C8 chose to air Unplanned, a controversial film against abortion, which has sparked significant outrage on social media. Viewers reacted angrily to the timing and content of the film, viewing it as the channel's last provocative act. One Twitter user expressed their dismay, stating, "C8 diffuse un film anti-IVG, les spectateurs s’indignent," pointing to the emotional response from many outraged spectators.
Prior to the film's airing, C8 displayed the message: "En France, toute femme a le droit de disposer de son corps comme elle l’entend. Ce droit est garanti par la loi et la Constitution. Ce récit qui n’engage que son auteur ne signifie pas remettre en question ce droit mais d’en mesurer toute son importance." This statement attempted to contextualize their choice of film and to distance the network from any suggestion of undermining the legal right to abortion, which, under French law, is protected and has been strengthened since the Veil Law of 1975.
The decision to air Unplanned, which had previously faced backlash when first broadcast by C8 on August 15, 2021, leads to questions about the channel's motivations. The film’s narrative follows the story of Abby Johnson, who transitioned from working for Planned Parenthood to becoming a pro-life activist. This controversial portrayal of abortion procedures has been criticized for its graphic content and sensationalism.
Following the announcement of their closure, both C8 and NRJ12 aired farewell programming throughout the day. C8's last leap featured reruns of Touche pas à mon poste and retrospective content highlighting the channel's memorable moments, capped off with steely finale programming. Similarly, NRJ12 planned to reflect on its legacy through special broadcasts, including notable shows and appearances from its iconic figures.
For some, C8’s decision to air Unplanned on its final night was perceived not just as provocative but also as disrespectful to viewers. Many angry tweets denounced the film as "propaganda," calling for more substantial and responsible programming during the channel's farewell. Some audience members voiced their feelings strongly, criticizing the channel for this choice, remarking, "C8 cette chaîne c'est de la merde jusqu'au bout!" expressing disdain for its approach to the final programming.
With the imminent change to the French TNT broadcasting lineup, new channels will take over airwaves occupied by C8 and NRJ12. From June 6, 2025, viewers can expect to see LCP/Public Sénat and Gulli occupying these slots. Simultaneously, additional amendments to the channel lineup will take place, including significant reshuffles among news channels as part of this broader restructuring. Such changes indicate not only the end of C8 and NRJ12 but also the competitive evolution of French television viewing habits.
The airing of the film Unplanned perhaps served as one last statement from C8, reflecting the channel's inconsistent editorial choices and political statements over the years. While some viewers may align with the anti-abortion message, many express continued frustration with what they perceive as the channel's insensitivity and reluctance to discuss complex societal issues honestly.
Going forward, viewers are encouraged to adapt to the changes on their television sets, with informative video signals expected to fill the channels beginning March 1 up until the new programming officially launches. This transitional period will help guide viewers through the process of tuning their devices to find the updated channel listings, ensuring they do not lose access to their favorite shows.
C8 will long be remembered for its controversial broadcasts and polarizing presence within the French media. The departure of both C8 and NRJ12 symbolizes not merely the end of their respective journeys but also highlights the changing landscapes within media consumption and the regulatory environments governing broadcast content.
Next, viewers must observe how LCP/Public Sénat and Gulli will reshape their experience, particularly as these new channels embrace their distinct identities. Will they step forward as responsible providers of content, or will they also find themselves embroiled in similar controversies? Only time will tell as the French public continues to engage with their media channels moving forward.