Catherine Laborde, the beloved former weather presenter for TF1, has passed away at the age of 73, her family announced on January 28, 2025. Known for her warm demeanor and vibrant presence on television, Laborde left behind a remarkable legacy as part of French broadcasting history.
Her sister, Françoise Laborde, shared the news on social media, saying, "You have gone serenely in the house of Île d'Yeu which you loved so much." This poignant statement highlighted not only the location of her passing but her deep connection to the idyllic island.
Laborde’s career spanned nearly three decades, from her debut on TF1 in 1988 until her retirement from the weather segment on January 1, 2017. During her final broadcast, she emotionally stated, "I’m taking you with me. You’ll forget me, I won’t. I love you!" These words struck a chord with millions of viewers who had followed her throughout her career, illustrating the genuine bond she formed with her audience.
Her health declined significantly due to Lewy body dementia, which she was diagnosed with in 2014. A similar condition to Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s, this neurodegenerative disorder took center stage as she bravely shared her fight against the illness. A year after her retirement, she published her book, "Trembler," which detailed her experiences with the disease and the challenges it brought to her life.
On various occasions, Laborde recounted the painful reality of her condition, describing it as living on "a roller coaster" and often experiencing confusion about her identity and surroundings. "It’s extremely painful, as if I have to carry around heavy weights, whether I like it or not," she explained during interviews.
Laborde's departure from television left not only fans but colleagues mourning her absence. French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his condolences, noting, "Through storms, sometimes tragedies, Catherine Laborde embodied permanence, often clarity." This sentiment was echoed by many across the media and political spectrum, showcasing the impact she had not only on her viewers but also among her peers.
François Bayrou, who described her as "my friend, childhood companion," fondly reminisced about their early friendship. Such recollections reveal the affectionate relationships Laborde cultivated throughout her life, highlighting her status as both an icon and personal confidante.
The TF1 group paid tribute to her legacy, remarking on her "competence, benevolence, and joy for life, which earned her the affection of all who knew her." This acknowledgement shows the deep respect and admiration she garnered not only from colleagues but also from the broader public.
Laborde's final days were reportedly surrounded by loved ones, with her sister Françoise mentioning moments of "clarity" and laughter before her passing. This intimate farewell speaks to the enduring connection they shared and the warmth she brought to those around her.
Celebrated not only for her professionalism, Laborde became synonymous with weather broadcasting on TF1, often recognized for her gentle smile and humility. She shared the stage with notable figures like Évelyne Dhéliat and Alain Gillot-Pétré, creating what many described as a "trio of joy" during weather broadcasts, captivating audiences with their charm.
Catherine Laborde’s contributions to French television will never be forgotten, as she held the role of presenting the weather with both grace and passion for almost 30 years. Her commitment to her audience and the candidness with which she addressed her health struggles resonate with many, making her memory enduring.
Her passing has spurred countless tributes on social media, where fans and fellow media personalities have shared their memories and celebrated her influence. Rachida Dati, the Minister of Culture, stated, "Her courage facing the illness had touched us deeply," encapsulating the widespread affection for Laborde and recognizing her strength.
On January 28, the day of her passing, coincidentally observed as World Lewy Body Dementia Day, her struggle and legacy take on even more significance, highlighting the importance of awareness surrounding the disease. Catherine Laborde’s battle against Lewy body dementia and her years enlightening viewers about the weather make her not only a television icon but also a symbol of resilience.