Catherine Laborde, the beloved former weather presenter for TF1, has died at the age of 73, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and sincerity cherished by millions of viewers. Her passing on January 28, 2025, followed a long battle with Lewy body dementia, which she had been suffering from since 2014.
Laborde's family shared insights about her final moments, showcasing the strong familial bonds she had throughout her life. Her sister, Françoise Laborde, took to Instagram to honor her memory with poignant reflections. "Ma chérie, tu es partie sereinement dans ta maison de l'Ile d'Yeu que tu aimais tant. Il y avait autour de toi Gabrièle et Pia, tes filles, et Jimmy leur père. Et aussi ton mari Thomas pour tes derniers jours," she wrote, detailing how Catherine was surrounded by those she loved dearly.
Françoise Laborde also recounted the precious time the sisters spent together just last week, chatting about their childhood memories, their parents, and sharing songs. "Tu nous as fait cet immense cadeau de nous offrir des derniers moments de conscience et de lucidité," she added, illustrating the compassion and thoughtfulness characteristic of their relationship, especially during these trying times.
Catherine Laborde echoed the sentiment of facing her illness with strength and grace during various interviews. "La peur c'est l'approche de la fin, c'est une peur banale," she stated during one of her rare public encounters, sharing her reflections on death and the significance of love and connection. Reflecting on her life and career, she expressed gratitude to her viewers, saying during her last broadcast, "Je pars avec le froid mais aussi avec tous ces souvenirs que vous m’avez donnés au fil des années. Vous m'oublierez ? Moi non. Je vous aime," words which resonate with many who watched her grow over nearly three decades on television.
Her departure is felt deeply within the French media. During the midday news on TF1, Marie-Sophie Lacarrau honored Catherine, highlighting her decades-long commitment to presenting the weather. "Les clefs du succès de Catherine c’était bien évidemment sa gentillesse, ça transpirait vers l’écran, son professionnalisme aussi," shared Lacarrau, pointing to the attributes viewers loved about her. Images from her career flickered across the screen, reminding everyone of the beloved presenter’s contribution to the network.
Dedicatory tributes poured in on social media, showcasing the extensive love and respect Catherine Laborde garnered throughout her extensive media career. Colleagues and fans alike shared their condolences, securing her place within the hearts of those she touched. Her affable nature, which allowed her to connect so seamlessly with the public, is something many seek to replicate.
Laborde began her career as an actress before transitioning to television, where she found her calling as one of France’s most recognizable faces on weekend weather forecasts. For nearly 29 years, from 1988 until her retirement in 2017, she became the go-to meteorologist for millions, her voice and presence synonymous with TF1.
The impact of her passing is also notable within the TF1 family as they mourn the loss of one of their own. Laborde's legacy will echo through the memories of viewers and colleagues recounting how she connected with audiences—not just as a source of weather updates—but as someone who brought joy and sincerity to her role.
Today, we celebrate Catherine Laborde, reflecting on the countless moments she shared with her audience. Her kindness, elegance, and humor are remembered fondly by those who had the pleasure of knowing her or watching her on screen. "Catherine était une femme cultivée, élégante, à la fois raffinée et frivole, qui aimait la vie, qui aimait rire," Françoise Laborde reminisced, summarizing the multifaceted personality of her sister.
Her departure from this world may leave a void, but her spirit will undoubtedly continue to light up the memories of those who watched her, worked alongside her, or had the cherished opportunity to call her family. An indelible mark on French television, Catherine Laborde's legacy will live on through the warm memories, heartfelt tributes, and her timeless impact on those whose lives she touched.