The fate of Cyril Hanouna’s popular talk show, Touche Pas à Mon Poste (TPMP), hangs delicately in the balance as C8 faces closure, mandated by the French audiovisual regulator, Arcom. With the end of February swiftly approaching, Hanouna and his team have been actively exploring options to continue the show, leaving fans of TPMP anxious about its future.
According to recent reports, the Arcom officially decided last July not to renew the broadcasting frequency for C8 and sister channel NRJ12. This decision was confirmed again by the Conseil d’État, stating these channels will cease to broadcast over TNT (the French digital television network) after February 28, 2025. This shutdown raises serious concerns for TPMP’s future, as it has become one of the flagship programs on C8, amassing between 1.5 to 2 million viewers each evening.
On January 6, during the latest episode of TPMP, Hanouna directly addressed these uncertainties. “The situation is complex, but I will fight to keep the show going,” he stated. “We’re examining all possible avenues.” Rumors suggest potential moves to CStar, another channel within the Canal+ group, which has been considered as TPMP's new home. The audience for CStar, currently struggling with low ratings, could benefit significantly from hosting Hanouna, potentially revitalizing its viewership.
Hanouna previously indicated there were efforts to shift TPMP to CStar back on December 19. At the time, he and Lionel Stan, the general director of the H2O production company, conveyed to their staff the disappointing news of TPMP’s impending end. The initial rejection of CStar as the show’s new venue seemed definitive. Yet, just days later, reports emerged from PurePeople indicating there might still be interest from Canal to host TPMP on CStar.
Adding to the intrigue, Hanouna mentioned, “We are working on several options, and I can confirm it’s possible to create a talk show format on CStar between 6 and 9:30 p.m. under the current agreement. We’ll explore this path and see what we can achieve.” This ambiguity leaves the show's future tantalizing yet precarious, as no decision has been solidified.
Meanwhile, Hanouna has assured fans he will continue his radio program, On marche sur la tête, on Europe 1 until June. Although he previously entertained the notion of taking over as host of the morning show on Europe 2, he confirmed this won’t happen for now, stating, “That’s not on the agenda for the moment.”
Despite the whirlwind surrounding TPMP, Hanouna's confidence remains evidently unwavering. He continues enriching his audience's anticipation with statements like, “We have exciting times coming, but I assure you, we have not concluded discussions on TPMP.” Viewers are left on the edge of their seats, waiting for definitive news as Hanouna’s charismatic leadership holds the show’s fate.
The uncertainty surrounding TPMP has not deterred its viewership, as evidenced by the high ratings it consistently draws. Discussions about its fate keep fans engaged, with many tuning in just to hear the latest updates on the program. Hanouna’s adept handling of the suspense surrounding the show's future speaks volumes about his connection with the audience.
With potential relocation to CStar, the next few weeks will be pivotal for TPMP. If the show can transition successfully and continue airing successfully, it could mark the beginning of another vibrant chapter for Hanouna and his team. The expectation of either returning to C8 or finding new ground with CStar remains at the forefront of discussions.
What’s clear is Hanouna’s status as one of the most visibly influential figures on French television—his show’s allure remains strong regardless of the uncertainties. The ever-evolving media environment offers fresh challenges, yet Hanouna’s place within the Canal+ family appears secure for now, as confirmed by industry insiders.
Cyril Hanouna is expected to provide more clarity on his show’s future shortly, and as he often promises on air, fans can anticipate hearing good news. But until then, anticipation looms large as viewers stay tuned to witness how the saga of TPMP resolves itself.