Denis Brogniart, the celebrated host of TF1's iconic survival show Koh-Lanta, has shared heartfelt reflections on his relationships with contestants as the new season kicks off. The season, titled La Revanche des 4 Terres, premieres on February 25, 2025, but it's the personal bonds he's formed over the years with past participants that's stealing the limelight.
During his recent interaction with Nice-Matin, Brogniart, who has been the face of Koh-Lanta for over two decades, opened up about the connections he's managed to maintain with several contestants. Known for his vibrant energy and enthusiasm, the 57-year-old host mentioned he follows all past contestants on Instagram and remains accessible to them through personal contact information. "There’s no rule, apart from the fact I follow them all on Instagram without exception. They can have my email or my number easily," he stated. "Some, I share more with, especially since we share passions for sports."
Among the contestants who have left their mark on him, he named Mathieu Blanchard, who achieved the remarkable feat during the Yukon Arctic Ultra, and Dorian Louvet, with whom he has often run. "They are great challengers, and we've maintained good relations after the show," he noted.
Denis’s fondness for former contestants goes beyond competitive sports, delving deeply personal connections with several. A notable example is Bertrand-Kamal Loudrhiri, affectionately known as Beka, who was particularly impactful not just due to his participation but through his courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. "He particularly touched me due to his strength of character throughout the adventure and also in life," Brogniart remarked, noting Beka’s inspiring fight until his tragic passing at the young age of 31.
Following Beka's death, Brogniart has sustained close ties with his parents, Samir and Annick, and actively supports the fund established in Beka's memory, Pour Bertrand Kamal, which is aimed at financing research projects for pancreatic cancer. This depth of connection showcases how Koh-Lanta evolves beyond the challenges and gameplay, becoming about shared humanity, emotional journeys, and lasting relationships.
"I have great admiration for all the contestants participating, regardless of backgrounds, gender, or age," Brogniart expressed passionately. "I believe they are partaking in the toughest show where normal people can find themselves, across all networks. For me, it doesn’t matter who wins. Whether they are from Paris, the provinces, male, female, young, or not so young, everyone deserves respect." His words resonate with the spirit of the show, highlighting the extreme challenges the contestants face and the personal battles they bring to the game.
This upcoming season promises excitement not just through thrilling challenges but also elaborate social dynamics and strategies, as 24 new adventurers, divided between four teams representing different regions of France, prepare to face the goals set before them. "We have explosive casting right from the first episode, where the marvel of human resilience and competition will shine," declared Rémi Faure, director of programs at TF1, during the press conference.
Fans of the series will see contestants aged between 20 and 63 years embarking on a unique adventure, poised to face not only physical trials but also psychological tactics as they navigate alliances and betrayals. Brogniart named several standout personalities to watch, including Allan, the docker from Dunkirk, and Joana, who is known for her vibrant personality, asserting they are sure to entertain audiences.
The new season of Koh-Lanta is marked not just by the competition but also by a massive twist — the largest bluff ever attempted in the show’s history. "I can’t disclose when it happens, but trust me, it's incredible. A bluff allows contestants to bounce back from hardships, turning the tides dramatically!" Brogniart teased, ensuring viewers can expect the unexpected.
With each new season, audiences are reminded how Koh-Lanta is more than just survival — it’s about forging connections, paying tribute to resilience and courage, and how deeply impacted the participants can leave the hosts like Brogniart. Every contestant's story matters, whether they win the title or simply rise to the occasion during their adventure.
On this note, fans anxiously await another thrilling season of challenges fueled by emotions, friendships, and unforgettable experiences. Denis Brogniart continues to be the curator of these journeys, drawing from his admiration and respect for every single participant who takes the leap of faith onto the sands of Koh-Lanta.