As the launch date approaches for the new television channel NOVO19, set to begin broadcasting on September 1, 2025, details about its programming and key personnel are starting to emerge. On Sunday, May 11, 2025, the Ouest-France group, which owns the channel, announced that Claire Arnoux will host the channel's daily talk show, marking a significant step forward for the network.
Claire Arnoux, a well-known figure in sports journalism, has been a prominent face on BeIn Sports since 2015, where she has hosted "Salon VIP," a program that features interviews with various guests discussing their relationship with sports. Additionally, she has been at the helm of "Tribune Sports," a weekly show that summarizes the latest in sports news every Sunday evening.
Before her tenure at BeIn Sports, Arnoux began her career in journalism on iTélé, the predecessor of CNews, where she presented sports news every weekend. In 2011, she worked across both Eurosport and Direct Star, contributing to the sports news segment on Eurosport while hosting an infotainment magazine on Direct Star called "Star Report." Her journey in media actually began in radio, starting in 2009 at Sport FM, which later became Europe & Sport.
Guénaëlle Troly, the director general of NOVO19, described Arnoux as an "experienced figure in television" who is adept at both general information and engaging with audiences. Troly emphasized that Arnoux's accessible communication style and grounded approach align perfectly with the channel's mission. "She knows the constraints of live broadcasting, understands the key moments in news, and can establish a clear and respectful dialogue with viewers," Troly stated.
At 40 years old, Arnoux is set to lead a talk show that aims to address current events and everyday life issues, engaging viewers in meaningful discussions. "I want to create a useful rendezvous that addresses news and daily life, appealing to everyone. It should be informative, but also entertaining," Arnoux shared. The talk show, whose name and exact airing time have yet to be revealed, will air from Monday to Friday and will last 75 minutes each episode.
The programming on NOVO19 is designed to resonate with a wide audience, focusing on topics such as health, education, culture, and the everyday challenges faced by citizens. The show will feature a diverse panel of commentators, some of whom will be selected through a unique casting process organized in partnership with Brut, a media outlet popular among younger generations.
Arnoux's philosophy for the talk show emphasizes kindness and open dialogue. "Kindness is the key principle of my vision for journalism and dialogue; it’s what I appreciate about the values of the Ouest-France group," she explained. She believes that discussions can be respectful and engaging, even when disagreements arise, highlighting that being kind and considerate does not equate to a lack of rigor.
In addition to the talk show, NOVO19 will also feature news bulletins, magazines, documentaries, and various entertainment formats. This channel marks a significant milestone as it will be the first national channel based in a city with fewer than one million inhabitants, specifically in Rennes.
Troly expressed her excitement about the launch of NOVO19, stating, "We aim to create a true generalist channel that fosters rhythm, connection, and open dialogue." The channel intends to spotlight the territories and citizens of France, ensuring that the content is not only informative but also relatable to everyday life.
As the launch date draws near, both Arnoux and the NOVO19 team are preparing for what they hope will be a successful entry into the competitive landscape of French television. Arnoux likened her preparation for the show to that of an athlete gearing up for the Olympics, demonstrating her commitment to delivering high-quality content.
With a focus on real-life stories and societal issues, the talk show aims to provide a platform for the voices of ordinary French citizens, making sure that their experiences and concerns are represented in the media landscape. This approach aligns with the channel's goal of creating a vibrant, curious, and occasionally humorous environment where society is reflected through the lens of everyday life.
As NOVO19 prepares for its debut, viewers can expect a fresh perspective on current events, delivered by a seasoned journalist who is passionate about making news accessible and engaging.
