In a moving display of courage and resilience, Ebony, a finalist from the popular show Star Academy, faced a distressing incident during a recent concert at the Zénith in Lille on March 22, 2025. The atmosphere quickly shifted from celebration to sorrow when a female spectator directed hateful and obscene gestures at the young artist amid a performance.
Performing alongside fellow artists, including Marine, Ebony had just finished a duet on the powerful song "Never Enough" from The Greatest Showman when the confrontation occurred. Eyewitnesses reported that after the offensive gesture, Ebony gathered her composure and addressed the audience: "A little message for a little lady in the public who made an unkind sign to me. I love her anyway, and I love everyone in this room," she expressed, her voice trembling with emotion.
The response from the crowd was immediate, with fans cheering and chanting Ebony's name, showing solidarity with the artist. In a further poignant moment, she added through her tears, "I hope that only love unites us, because hate has no place in this room." This heartfelt declaration underscored not only her strength but also the wider theme of love versus hate that resonates with many in the audience.
Ebony's emotional display did not go unnoticed. Fellow contestants joined her onstage for a collective embrace that highlighted the solidarity and friendship fostered during their time on the show. The entire group, including Franck, Maureen, and Marguerite, rallied around her, demonstrating the support that the contestants extend toward one another in difficult moments.
Following the concert, Marguerite took to social media to express her anger and frustration regarding the incident, stating, "Shame on you, madame aux lunettes rouges," directly addressing the offending spectator. Her words echoed a broader condemnation of hate and racism that Ebony has faced not just during the concert but throughout her journey in the Star Academy.
Marine, who has often been placed in a competitive light against Ebony, publicly condemned the hateful behavior, stating in an interview with France Inter, "Of course, I do not agree with that at all, I condemn all forms of racism towards Ebony and I will support her no matter what." Her strong stance exemplifies the unity shared among the artists, as they collectively declare their rejection of racism.
The emotional toll of the confrontation was visible as Ebony eventually collapsed to her knees, overwhelmed by the support and the moment. As she was enveloped in applause and cries of solidarity from the audience, she later shared on Instagram, "Hate has no place anywhere," reaffirming her commitment to fostering an environment of love and acceptance.
Ebony's experience at the Lille concert is the latest in a string of troubling incidents that began long before the show concluded. Throughout her time on Star Academy, she has been subjected to numerous attacks and racist remarks, bringing attention to an issue that has plagued the entertainment industry. The Paris prosecutor's office confirmed earlier this year that it had received multiple complaints regarding discriminatory remarks targeted at Ebony, highlighting the severity and prevalence of such behavior.
Despite the hate directed towards her, this resilient 20-year-old is determined to focus on her music and artistry. Ebony has continually expressed her refusal to let negativity define her path. In previous interviews, she has stated, "I do not pay attention to that. It’s not related to my art," expressing a commendable fortitude in the face of adversity. Her ongoing journey as an artist reflects the complexities of navigating fame in an often-hostile environment.
As the Star Academy tour continues across France, Switzerland, and Belgium, the community around Ebony continues to emphasize love and support. The incident at Lille serves as a reminder of the challenges that remain in the battle against discrimination, but it also showcases the power of solidarity among artists and fans alike.
Indeed, as they move forward with the tour, the message is crystal clear—love will always triumph over hate. The audience’s support not only lifted Ebony in her moment of need but also affirmed the broader quest for acceptance and understanding in society.
As the artists prepare for their upcoming shows, they carry with them the lessons learned from Lille, hopeful for a future where all individuals can celebrate their love for music without the shadow of hate looming over them.
Ebony's story, while painful, is one of resilience and hope—a testament that love, in all its forms, can triumph when faced with adversity.
