TF1 is set to broadcast a nostalgic special titled 'Merci Dorothée!' this Friday night, celebrating the legacy of one of the most beloved children's television shows, 'Club Dorothée'. Created by the iconic Dorothée, whose real name is Frédérique Hoschedé, this show was the cornerstone of French children's programming from 1987 to 1997. During its decade-long run, 'Club Dorothée' captivated millions of young viewers with its mix of popular anime, sitcoms, and unforgettable musical numbers.
This special event, hosted by Nikos Aliagas, will not only reflect on Dorothée's illustrious career but also provide updates on what has become of her co-stars over the years. Jacky (Jacques Jakubowicz), Corbier (François Corbier), Ariane Carletti, and Patrick Simpson-Jones were all integral to the show's success and are expected to appear on screen.
Dorothée’s success was considerable, with her program serving as the gateway to popular anime series such as Dragon Ball, Saint Seiya, and Nicky Larson, which introduced many French children to the genre. She and her team became iconic figures, with fans reminiscing about the show and how it shaped their childhoods. Over the years, TF1 has archived clips of various skits from the show, which will be featured throughout the tribute, along with Dorothée's musical performances.
The evening promises to evoke strong sentiments among the audience, especially those who grew up with the program. It aims to capture the essence of the joy and excitement the 'Club Dorothée' brought to viewers during their formative years. Commenting on the reunion, Jacky expressed, “Dorothée counts enormously for me,” reflecting on their lasting friendship and the impact they had on each other's careers.
During the broadcast, viewers can expect to see Dorothée perform her first new song, 'J'ai dans mes souvenirs', since her last album release in 2010. This moment is anticipated to rekindle nostalgic feelings and possibly reconnect Dorothée with her audience after years away from the spotlight.
The tribute will also pay respect to the late members of the team including Ariane Carletti, who passed away from cancer in September 2019, and François Corbier, who died shortly before her, in June 2018. This will be particularly poignant as families and fans reflect on their contributions to French television and the impact of their absence.
Perhaps the most heartwarming aspect of the evening will be the guest appearances by current stars who grew up watching 'Club Dorothée'. From contemporary artists like Nolwenn Leroy and Amir to former co-stars, their presence signifies the enduring legacy of Dorothée and her team.
Elodie, 42, reflects on her experience growing up with the show, saying, “The Club Dorothée has shaped my childhood and adolescence. The animators felt like family, and those values of courage and camaraderie they taught us still resonate with me today.” Such testimonials echo the emotional connection fans feel with the show, which remains an indelible part of their life memories.
Yet, the show was not without its controversies. Critics have often pointed out concerns over the violence present in some of the anime series aired during the 1990s. Dorothée herself acknowledged the responsibility she felt as host, stating, “At the time, we were aware of our responsibility to our millions of viewers... but I never thought it had such beautiful magnitude,” reflecting the deep impact the show had.
The nostalgia-driven 'Merci Dorothée!' aims to engage viewers with both fond memories and the reality of change, inspecting the lives of those who were once on-screen together. Patrick Simpson-Jones has now transitioned to entrepreneurship and reflects on the challenges he faced post-show. He shared plans for various business projects after moving to the United States.
Fans of all ages are expected to tune in as the special promises to reconnect them with their childhoods, reminding them of the joyous moments they shared with the show. Dorothée's influence on children across generations is celebrated as they reminisce together.
Although the primary focus will be on celebrating past successes, the show is also tinged with sadness as it confronts the realities of loss and change. This focus on remembrance fosters a sense of unity among viewers as they process their shared experiences and reminisce about the joys of 'Club Dorothée'. Whether through laughter, singing, or tears, each viewer’s experience will be uniquely shaped by the memories of growing up with Dorothée and her team.
Fans are eager to gather together for this sentimental event, marking the night not just as entertainment, but as a cherished reunion with their childhood selves. TF1 hopes to cultivate this sense of community and nostalgia, bringing together both old fans and new generations who may just now be discovering the iconic presence of Dorothée.