Catherine Laborde, the beloved former weather presenter for TF1, has passed away at the age of 73. Her family announced the news on January 28, 2025, confirming the death of the iconic television personality who had long captivated French audiences with her warmth and professionalism.
Laborde succumbed to Lewy body disease, a neurodegenerative illness she had battled since 2014. Originally from Bordeaux, her career spanned nearly three decades, where she became an integral part of TF1's weather team, presenting forecasts from 1988 until her retirement in 2017. Her last broadcast was marked by heartfelt emotion, leaving viewers and colleagues alike with lasting memories.
Louis Bodin, her colleague at TF1, reflected on her kindness and the welcoming nature she exhibited to him upon his arrival to the network. "Autant de bienveillance, c'est rare," he shared, highlighting her altruism and generosity of spirit. Bodin remembered their first meeting: "She welcomed me with kindness and wanted me to feel integrated within the team." Such anecdotes paint Laborde as not just a colleague but as someone who truly cared about those she worked with.
Another TF1 figure, Evelyne Dhéliat, echoed Bodin's sentiments, stating, "Elle transpirait à travers l'écran, tout comme son professionnalisme," which captures the essence of Laborde’s ability to connect with audiences—her enthusiasm and expertise were palpable, making her presence felt from the screen to the hearts of viewers.
TF1 issued a statement honoring Laborde’s extensive contributions to the network. They praised her competence and joyous spirit, which earned her the affection of her colleagues and fans alike. The network noted, "Sa compétence, sa joie de vivre qui lui valaient l'affection de toutes celles et ceux qui la côtoyaient," acknowledging her as more than just a presenter; she was part of the family at TF1.
The impact of Laborde's passing was felt far beyond her immediate circle. Political leader François Bayrou voiced his sadness, calling her "une amie, une copine d'adolescence." This personal connection he shared with her since their days together at high school added another layer to her legacy. Bayrou described her as "la grâce et la vie, la fragilité et l'enthousiasme," illustrating the vibrant spirit she brought to those around her.
Laborde's legacy is one filled with admiration. She not only fulfilled her role with professionalism but also infused her work with personality and warmth. During severe storms or bright sunny days, she helped viewers feel prepared and informed, and her signature smile supported the narratives of many weather events.
Her contribution to public broadcasting is indicative of the love and respect all those she interacted with held for her. Laborde helped to shape TF1’s image, becoming one of its most recognizable faces over her 28 years on air. Her departure from the channel signified the end of an era, but her influence will surely endure.
With tributes pouring in from fans and colleagues alike, it is evident Catherine Laborde will not be forgotten. She encapsulated the essence of broadcasting: connecting with viewers beyond the facts and figures. Her warmth bridged the gap, inviting everyone watching to regard her as not just a voice on the screen, but as part of their lives.
Today, audiences and colleagues mourn the loss of Catherine Laborde, but they celebrate her impact on French television. Her legacy will undoubtedly live on through cherished memories and the many lives she touched throughout her career.