On Monday, May 5, 2025, Catherine Davydzenka bid farewell to her role as Hortense in the popular TF1 series Ici tout commence. This heartfelt departure marks the end of an era for the actress, who has portrayed the character since the show's inception in 2020. Ici tout commence, a daily drama that delves into the lives of young culinary apprentices at the renowned Institut Auguste Armand, has captivated audiences for years, but now it faces a significant shift in its narrative landscape.
Catherine Davydzenka, reflecting on her last day on set, shared her emotional experience with AlloCiné. "It was a suspended moment. During the filming of this last scene, I felt as if I was living each second more intensely, as if my heart was recording everything so I wouldn't forget it," she recalled. As the final clap echoed, she felt a void but also a deep sense of accomplishment. "Tears came unexpectedly. It wasn't just the end of a scene; it was the end of a chapter in my life. I looked around and saw faces I love, people I grew up with, and I felt both sad to leave... and infinitely grateful to have lived this experience."
Davydzenka's journey with Ici tout commence has been transformative. "It's an adventure that has changed me. I've grown as an actress and as a woman. Ici tout commence gave me a family, precious friends, and memories that will remain engraved in my heart. Most importantly, the role of Hortense allowed me to express myself fully, to dare, to feel. It's an immense gift I will never forget," she expressed.
Fans of the series have been left wondering whether Davydzenka might reprise her role in the future. When asked if she would be happy to return as Hortense, she responded without hesitation: "Yes, of course. Hortense is a part of me. If one day the stars align, I would be very happy to reunite with her, to dive back into this universe, and to see everyone who mattered to me in this adventure." This openness leaves the door ajar for a potential comeback, much to the delight of her fans.
As Hortense exits, another significant change is on the horizon for the series. The character Vic, portrayed by Lou Ladegaillerie, also departed on the same day, heading to Bordeaux to seek treatment for breast cancer. This dual exit has created a poignant narrative moment for viewers, as the two characters have been central to the show's emotional core.
Vic's departure was not without its own dramatic twists. Initially, Enzo, played by Azize Diabaté, intended to follow Vic to Bordeaux, but ultimately, it was Hortense who decided to accompany her younger sister during this challenging time. The storyline reflects the strong familial bonds that have been a hallmark of the series.
In a twist that has fans buzzing, the return of two beloved characters, Kelly and Laëtitia, is set to shake things up at the Institut Auguste Armand. According to Télé Star, the mother-daughter duo, played by Florence Coste and Axelle Dodier, has rejoined the cast, with filming resuming at the end of April 2025. Their return promises to bring excitement and potential drama, especially given Kelly's past relationship with Lionel, which could complicate his new romance with Emi.
Laëtitia, who left Calvières for Paris after winning the Championnat des maîtres d'hôtel, is expected to stir emotions as she reconnects with Stanislas, who has moved on since their breakup. The dynamics at the Institut are sure to be tested as these characters navigate their complicated histories.
As the series evolves, the departure of its original cast members has been a bittersweet journey. Following the exits of Aurélie Pons (Salomé) in May 2024 and Axelle Dodier (Kelly) in July 2024, Davydzenka's farewell signifies a notable shift in the show's trajectory. Despite these changes, the production team has assured fans that the essence of Ici tout commence will remain intact.
Davydzenka's decision to leave was not made lightly; she had informed the production over a year ago, allowing the writers ample time to craft a believable exit for her character. "I had warned the production more than a year ago," she stated, emphasizing her commitment to ensuring a satisfying conclusion for Hortense's story. The producers have expressed their gratitude for Davydzenka's contributions, highlighting her dedication to the series and her character.
While Hortense's storyline comes to a close, the door remains open for potential future appearances. As the series continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the narrative unfolds with the introduction of returning characters and the development of new storylines.
In the end, the heart of Ici tout commence lies in its ability to adapt and grow, reflecting the lives of its characters as they face challenges, forge relationships, and pursue their passions in the culinary world. As fans say goodbye to Hortense and Vic, they are left with the promise of new adventures and the enduring spirit of the Institut Auguste Armand.
