C8, the French television channel, reaches its final broadcasts this week, culminating in emotional farewells from its dedicated staff and significant reactions from the public and political figures alike. With the decision to cease broadcasting taken by the ARCOM (the French regulatory authority) and the Conseil d'État, C8 will conclude its operations after this Friday, February 28, marking the first time a television channel has been shut down entirely in France and Europe.
C8 has been home to popular shows and cherished hosts, making its impending closure particularly poignant. Notable figures such as William Leymergie, who has hosted his show "William à midi" since 2017, have openly criticized the decision and expressed their deep sadness. Leymergie, 78, stated during the final broadcasts, "This is particularly sad. We do not understand why we are the designated victims of this matter." He voiced frustration over the regulatory body’s actions, claiming it disregarded the opinions of hundreds of thousands of viewers who regularly tune in.
On Monday, Leymergie passionately conveyed his feelings during his show, declaring, "This channel is being closed without consulting the very viewers who have supported it. It feels like our audience's vote is being discarded by those who have no real stake.
Leymergie's sentiments resonate with other C8 hosts, particularly Jordan de Luxe, who echoed similar emotions during his final episode of "Chez Jordan" which aired two days before the official closure. Surrounded by his loyal crew and special guests, he shared, "I find what’s happening absolutely unbelievable and very sad. I feel anger and rage, as C8 is the channel where I originated." This heartfelt moment was undeniably charged with nostalgia and gratitude for the audience, as it aimed to reflect on three years of programming.
The closure of C8 has not only affected its hosts but also the employees behind the scenes. It has been reported there will be around 400 workers facing unemployment as the channel shuts down. Leymergie articulated his concern for these workers, asking if it was fair to send them to unemployment without proper justification or consideration of viewer satisfaction. He added, "Daily viewership is like casting a vote. We have never had reports of dissatisfaction from our audience; rather, they show up every day to watch our programs," pointing to high viewer engagement.
Political figures have also chimed in on this unprecedented closure. Eric Ciotti, a deputy and president of the UDR, stated, "I would have preferred if we closed the ARCOM instead of C8," underscoring the controversy and debate surrounding the regulatory body's decision. His comments highlight the political dimensions intertwined with the closure of the channel, reflecting wider concerns about media regulation and censorship.
Public sentiment is similarly divided. Arnaud, a listener of Cyril Hanouna's show "On marche sur la tête," expressed regret saying, "C8 holds sentimental value for me and my family. It provided moments of joy without hysteria." This sentiment showcases the channel's impact on regular viewers who cherished its programming, affirming the channel’s role in their daily lives.
The emotive atmosphere surrounding the channel's closure has been palpable. Michaël Youn, another noted figure of the television community, publicly endorsed C8 and criticized the closure on his social media platform, labeling the decision as "unjust and arbitrary." His support garnered appreciation from Hanouna and others during their final broadcasts, emphasizing the importance of solidarity within the television community.
Even as the closure nears, C8 plans to broadcast last-minute tributes, including a special farewell program from Hanouna titled "TPMP: toute la vérité," expected to air on its final day. This event will serve not only as closure for loyal viewers but as tribute to the contributions made by hosts and staff over the years.
The decision to shut down C8 has sparked discussions about media plurality and the role of public institutions like ARCOM. Leymergie's emphasis on audience metrics raises questions about the effectiveness of viewer feedback mechanisms and how they shape media landscapes. "Why weren’t we consulted? The viewers are the ones who should have the final say," he asserted, calling for fairer treatment from regulatory entities.
Looking forward, Leymergie admitted his future is uncertain but expressed his desire to continue working. "I still want to work, and as long as I am capable, I will pursue opportunities," he stated, denying any plans for retirement. Nevertheless, the closure of C8 stands not just as the end of one television era but also as commentary on the fragility of media amid regulatory shifts and viewer engagement. The heartbreak felt by employees, hosts, and viewers alike speaks volumes not only of C8's contributions to French television but of what could be lost if decisions like this go unchallenged.