Catherine Laborde, the beloved weather presenter for French television network TF1, has passed away at the age of 73. Her family announced her death on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, after she succumbed to complications from Lewy body dementia. Laborde died peacefully at her home on the Île d'Yeu, surrounded by loved ones, including her sister Françoise Laborde, who expressed deep sorrow over the loss.
“You left serenely from your home on the Île d'Yeu, which you loved so much,” her sister noted, reflecting on the cherished moments they shared just last week.
Born on May 8, 1951, in Bordeaux, Laborde became one of the most recognized faces on French television, serving as TF1’s prime weather presenter from July 1988 until her retirement on January 1, 2017. Her last live bulletin was marked by emotion, as she told viewers, “I leave with memories of wonderful moments, and with so much love and kindness.” She emotionally added, “You will forget me, but I won’t forget you. I love you,” leaving viewers unaware of the extent of her health struggles.
Laborde disclosed her battle with Lewy body dementia, diagnosed back in 2014, through her book Trembler. Initially speculated as Parkinson's disease, the condition manifested with symptoms resembling both Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. Lewy body dementia, which affects approximately 250,000 individuals across France, can lead to significant fluctuations between periods of confused lucidity and moments of clarity, complicity her communication abilities.
Neurologists first identified her health issues as cognitive declines, emphasizing the variability of her symptoms, which included hallucinations. Her husband, Thomas Stern, shared insight on her deteriorated state during various interviews, noting, “She struggles to express herself and understand conversations, oscillated between confusion and lucidity.”
Despite grappling with her illness, Laborde remained candid about her experience, famously declaring during her last public interactions, including her prompts to her family and the media, her fearful encounters with memory loss.
Throughout her television career, Laborde also dabbled in acting and wrote several books dissecting themes of love, fidelity, and neurology—her explorations of life and love during illness deeply touched many readers. Her work with her husband culminated in 2020 with the publication of Amour Malade, where she penned heartfelt reflections on their shared struggle against her condition.
The news of her passing prompted heartfelt tributes across social media. Fellow presenters, fans, and influential figures mourned her loss, recalling her signature warm presence and dedication to her viewers. “Catherine Laborde’s passing marks the end of an era; she touched countless lives with her poise and grace,” remarked Jean-Luc Reichmann, another prominent TF1 star.
TF1 released an official statement, paying tribute to her remarkable career, “We are deeply saddened to learn of Catherine Laborde's passing. She was not just our weather presenter; she held a place close to our hearts and played a significant role in the lives of the French public for nearly three decades.”
The tribute from Météo-France added, “Catherine Laborde was the sunny face of weather forecasting for nearly thirty years. She will be remembered fondly.” This sentiment rang true for many who welcomed her presence each day on their screens, marking her as not just another anchor, but as part of their families.
Laborde's departure leaves behind not only personal loss for her family and friends but also echoes through the generations of viewers who came to adore her sincerity, warmth, and skill. Her reflections about the human experience resonate deeply, especially considering her battle with Lewy body dementia—a disease characterized by its devastating impact.
She leaves behind two daughters, Gabrièle and Pia, who were by her side during her final days. Frances noted how their family gathered around her, sharing laughter and love even as she faced the challenges brought on by her disease.
With her passing, France mourns the loss of one of its television stars, and as reflections emerge on her legacy, many will cherish her contributions not just to meteorology but also to the public discourse surrounding mental health and neurodegenerative conditions.
Catherine Laborde was more than just the voice of the weather; she was beloved for her spirit and resilience, leaving behind memories adorned with warmth, laughter, and love.