On Tuesday, April 1, 2025, the popular French game show Les 12 coups de midi celebrated April Fool's Day with a special twist that left viewers both amused and relieved. Emilien, the reigning champion who has dominated the show since September 2023, was temporarily replaced by Sylvain, the show's hairstylist of nearly 20 years, as part of a light-hearted prank. This unexpected turn of events occurred during Emilien's 551st appearance, a milestone that has seen him amass a staggering prize pool exceeding 2.2 million euros and discover 19 mysterious stars.
As the episode began, fans were shocked when Sylvain, donning Emilien's signature glasses and outfit, took center stage instead of the beloved champion. Host Jean-Luc Reichmann, visibly surprised, exclaimed, "It's not true, I can't believe it! It's Sylvain the hairstylist. Where's Emilien?" Sylvain humorously responded, "Well, I have the glasses, the shirt, and the answers! I don't know where Emilien is. I've been cutting your hair for 19 years!" This playful banter set the tone for a memorable episode.
However, the humor took a serious turn when Emilien finally returned to reclaim his seat as Maître de midi. The stakes were high, and the pressure was palpable as he faced a tricky question about the Olympic rings. When asked, "To what do the Olympic rings refer?" both Emilien and a contestant mistakenly answered "the continents," while the correct answer was "the flags." This blunder could have led to Emilien's elimination had he been challenged by the contestant, Laura, who strategically chose not to face him in the duel. Reichmann noted, "Wow, that means today he could have fallen! There are traps everywhere!"
Emilien's near miss highlighted the unpredictable nature of competition, even for a champion known for his extensive knowledge and confidence. "It could have been a thunderclap. We could have lost Emilien. You see, there are pitfalls everywhere," Reichmann remarked, underscoring the tension of the moment.
Despite the close call, Emilien managed to maintain his title, continuing his impressive run on the show. Since his first appearance, he has captivated audiences with his charm and knowledge, leading many to wonder when, or if, he will ever be dethroned. His record of 551 participations is a testament to his skill and determination.
As the episode progressed, the atmosphere remained light-hearted, with other segments designed to entertain. Mister Maboule, a regular on the show, even took the opportunity to imitate Jean-Luc Reichmann, adding to the festive spirit of the day. The production team had prepared various surprises to celebrate the occasion, ensuring that the audience was thoroughly entertained.
In a playful nod to the significance of April 1st, fans were treated to a mix of humor and suspense, making it a day to remember in the show's history. Emilien's ability to bounce back from his brief scare served as a reminder that even the best can face challenges. His journey continues, with viewers eagerly anticipating each new episode and the potential for more unexpected twists.
As the episode wrapped up, viewers were left with a sense of excitement and curiosity about what the future holds for Emilien. Will he continue his winning streak? Can he uncover the identity behind the elusive 20th star? The answers to these questions will unfold in the coming episodes, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
The April Fool's Day episode of Les 12 coups de midi not only showcased Emilien's resilience but also highlighted the show's ability to blend humor with competition. With a loyal fanbase and a charismatic host, the show remains a staple of French television, capturing the hearts of many.
As for Emilien, he remains focused on his goals, determined to continue his impressive streak. "Today, I could have fallen, but I’m still here, and I’m ready for whatever comes next!" he might say, embodying the spirit of a true champion.
