Catherine Laborde, the beloved weather presenter for TF1, passed away on January 28, 2025, at the age of 73 after suffering from Lewy body dementia, a debilitating neurodegenerative disease.
Laborde’s family confirmed her death, noting she died peacefully at her cherished home on Île d'Yeu, where she found comfort and serenity during her final moments. Her sister, journalist Françoise Laborde, shared tender remarks about the days leading up to Catherine's passing, stating, "You left peacefully at your home on the Île d'Yeu, which you loved so much." This heartfelt statement was echoed by the family as they reflected on the joy and laughter they shared.
For close to three decades, Catherine Laborde was the face of weather reporting on TF1, bringing warmth and brightness to millions of viewers across France. Her engaging presence and soothing voice made her a household name, earning her affection from the audience and respect from her colleagues. Her official departure from programming came on January 1, 2017, when she delivered her last weather bulletin with emotion, saying, "I carry you with me. Will you forget me? I won’t forget you. I love you." Little did her viewers know at the time, this poignant farewell was intertwined with the struggles she had been facing due to her health.
Diagnosed with Lewy body dementia around 2014, Laborde's condition significantly impacted her communication ability as the disease progressed. Françoise Laborde provided insight during her interviews, emphasizing the fluctuative nature of Catherine’s health, which made communication increasingly difficult. She noted, "There were moments of confusion, but Catherine was able to share moments of clarity and connection with us, gifts we cherished." The complexity of Lewy body dementia, which bears resemblance to both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson's disease, rendered it difficult to diagnose and manage.
Throughout her illness, Catherine kept the public informed about her condition. She touched on her struggles and experiences through her writing, with notable works including the poignant "Trembler" published after her retirement, where she discussed her diagnosis and the resulting challenges associated with it. Françoise also highlighted the beauty of their shared memories during the days spent together leading up to her sister's demise, saying, "We listened to music and talked about our childhood—she was happy." Catherine's ability to maintain her spirit, even amid adversity, inspired many.
Tributes began pouring in shortly after her passing as public figures and fans alike mourned the loss of this cherished figure. French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his condolences, stating, "Through the storms and even sometimes the dramas, Catherine Laborde embodied permanence and light." Many colleagues at TF1 shared their sorrow, stating they felt her kindness and dedication. The network honored Laborde as one of the most respected and beloved presenters who graced their screen.
The impact of Catherine Laborde’s passing resonates deeply within both the media sphere and among her audience, recalling the warmth she brought to daily life. The outpouring of grief on social media reflected her status as more than just a presenter; to many, she was considered part of their family, someone who brightened their days and brought the weather forecast to life.
Her contributions to television, combined with her literary endeavors, including insightful takes on personal freedom and relationships, solidified her legacy as both a skilled communicator and empathetic individual. Laborde's career began not just with weather but also on the stage, where she cultivated her talents after studying at the Bordeaux Dramatic Arts Conservatory. She appeared in several films during her early years, showcasing her versatility across various entertainment platforms.
It is universally acknowledged among her fans and peers alike: Catherine Laborde was emblematic of grace, laughter, and the ability to connect with others through both her words and her presence. Her family has ensured she is remembered not only for her contributions to television but also for her strength and resilience against her illness. The final tribute to Catherine Laborde from her family captures her essence perfectly: "You have gifted us with joyous moments of clarity, and for this, we will always be grateful." The legacy she leaves behind goes beyond the screen; it embodies the love, warmth, and humanity she shared with everyone she encountered.