Elie Semoun, the beloved French comedian, made a heartwarming announcement on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, during his appearance on the popular talk show Quotidien. At 61 years old, Semoun revealed he is expecting his second child, a joyous surprise for both the audience and the host, Yann Barthès.
Semoun, who has been a fixture in French comedy for over three decades, was on the show to promote his upcoming tour for his new stand-up show titled Cactus. This marks his return to the stage after a long hiatus, and he is set to embark on a nationwide tour starting in October 2025, concluding in April 2026. The comedian's career has seen a remarkable evolution since his debut in the iconic sitcom Vivement Lundi!.
During the interview, Semoun shared various aspects of his life, including the challenges and joys of parenting. He has a son named Antoine, born in July 1995 from a previous relationship with Annie Florence Jeannesson. Antoine, who was diagnosed with Asperger's autism, is making strides as a painter under the pseudonym Andy Santori. Semoun reflected on Antoine's difficult start in life, having been born prematurely at five and a half months and weighing only 750 grams. "His beginning was chaotic," Semoun recalled, adding that it shaped Antoine into a "combative and different" individual.
As the conversation shifted to his personal life, Barthès inquired about Semoun's upcoming projects. Semoun announced he would be filming a new installment of the Ducobu movie series titled Ducobu et le fantôme de Saint Potache this summer. He expressed excitement about the film, which continues the adventures of the beloved character Ducobu. However, it was his next revelation that truly captivated the audience.
"Between filming and the tour, I'm going to give you a scoop: I'm going to be a dad again!" Semoun exclaimed, eliciting applause from the audience. "A lot of things are waiting for me. I'll be an old dad in September!" His announcement was met with cheers and congratulations from Barthès and the studio audience, reflecting the joy of this unexpected news.
Semoun's journey as a father has been filled with both challenges and triumphs. He often speaks about the pride he feels for Antoine and the lessons learned through parenting. The comedian previously mentioned the emotional journey he faced when coming to terms with Antoine's diagnosis, admitting he initially struggled with denial. However, he has since embraced the unique qualities that make his son special.
In addition to his personal revelations, Semoun's new show Cactus promises to tackle contemporary issues with humor and insight. The show will feature a variety of themes, including the complexities of modern society, as reflected in its diverse cast of characters. Semoun has stated that he aims to provide a light yet profound commentary on the world we live in, touching on topics such as disability, family dynamics, and societal expectations.
As he prepares for his new role as a father again, Semoun's excitement is palpable. He has a busy schedule ahead, with the film shoot and the tour, but he seems ready to embrace the joys of parenthood once more. "There's no age to become a parent," he noted, proving that love and family can flourish at any stage of life.
Elie Semoun's announcement not only highlights a personal milestone but also serves as an inspiration for many. His journey reflects the resilience of family bonds and the joy that comes with new beginnings, even later in life. As he steps into this new chapter, audiences can look forward to both his comedic performances and the heartwarming stories that will undoubtedly emerge from his experiences as a father.
With his upcoming projects and the impending arrival of his second child, Semoun is poised for a remarkable year ahead. As fans eagerly await his return to the stage, they can also celebrate the joy of his expanding family and the new adventures that await him.
