Cyril Hanouna, the well-known host of the talk show 'Touche pas à mon poste' (TPMP), made headlines on February 25, 2025, as he publicly apologized to fellow presenter Karine Le Marchand for his past derogatory comments about her. This apology came during his show, marking a significant moment amid the imminent closure of C8, the channel where TPMP has thrived since 2012.
During the broadcast, Hanouna expressed remorse, stating, "I know and I am aware we've caused her harm. I read her interviews, and it had an impact on her family. I apologize for these things." This admission came after years of tension between the two presenters, particularly when Le Marchand previously declared she would leave M6 if Hanouna joined the same group.
Le Marchand reacted to Hanouna's apology via Instagram, noting she took his words to heart but remained firm on her stance: "I am continuing my collaboration with M6 on programs like 'L'Amour est dans le pré' and 'La France a un incroyable talent'." Her response reflects the cautious optimism surrounding their relationship, acknowledging Hanouna's contrition yet maintaining her professional boundaries.
The recent conflict traces back several years, highlighted by disparaging remarks from Hanouna about Le Marchand's work ethic and professionalism. Hanouna compiled some of his past criticisms during the broadcast, emphasizing his acknowledgment of the inappropriate remarks and the pain caused to Le Marchand.
"We've had discussions about me moving to M6, and she expressed she'd leave the group if I did," Hanouna remarked on his show. While discussing their once-close friendship, he compared their current strained relationship to his previous feud with producer and host Arthur, stating, "Television is just television. What we go through today..."
Adding to the intrigue, rumors suggest Hanouna may transition to M6 after C8 officially shuts down on February 28, 2025. He revealed he has received multiple offers, including one from Canal+ to move TPMP to CStar, and another from M6 to develop new programming concepts. This prospect of change marks Hanouna's first channel switch since he became synonymous with TPMP.
With C8's departure from the airwaves, Hanouna plans to reveal his future on February 28 during a special broadcast titled 'TPMP: All the Truth'. He hinted at potential destinations, including creating his own channel or moving to channels within Canal+ and M6. "There are four possibilities," he stated, noting the importance of retaining as many of his current team as possible, as he makes this pivotal choice for his career.
Le Marchand’s poke at Hanouna's past behavior also punctuated the conversation, signaling her desire to maintain professional integrity as they navigate these changes. Her steadfastness is representative of the shifting dynamics within French television, where alliances can quickly turn amid rivalries.
The closure of C8 has sparked reactions from viewers, critics, and industry insiders, with many questioning the rationale behind shutting down the most-watched channel on TNT. Viewers like Cathy expressed their displeasure during discussions on various platforms, lamenting the perceived lack of public outcry over the decision, which they deem detrimental to the viewing community.
"We've treated the French poorly over the years without saying anything," said Cathy on the show 'On marche sur la tête'. Her remarks resonate amid discussions of how the media treats its audience and the dynamics between viewers and broadcasters.
Looking forward, Hanouna’s decision is expected to set the tone for how his career will evolve, and whether or not any collaborations with Le Marchand will manifest. They both seem to recognize the complex history between them, yet it remains to be seen whether personal relations can overcome past grievances as they potentially work closer together under the same network.
With his call-out to the audience and viewers, Hanouna is poised not only to share his future plans but also to act as a pivot point as the French television scene witnesses significant changes. The mystery continues to build as fans eagerly await his announcement concerning where he will land after the dramatic shift following C8's closure.