On Saturday, May 10, 2025, France 3 aired a rebroadcast of the gripping episode titled "Le voleur de nuits" from the acclaimed series Le Voyageur, featuring the charismatic Eric Cantona in the lead role of Thomas Bareski. Originally broadcast on November 10, 2020, this episode has continued to captivate audiences with its compelling narrative and strong performances.
The story unfolds as Judge Claire Elgouarch, portrayed by Lubna Azabal, reaches out to Bareski to assist in an unresolved case—the mysterious disappearance of seven-year-old Marion in 1991. This case has haunted the local community, particularly as Marion is the daughter of the gendarme who was in charge of the investigation at the time, played by Cédric Appietto. The judge has received a remorseful letter from the aging and ailing perpetrator, which she believes could shed light on the long-cold case.
As Bareski, a former cop who now lives in a van, embarks on this journey, he aims to uncover the truth behind the disappearance and bring closure to Marion's family. The episode is set against the picturesque backdrop of the Pays de la Loire region, with filming locations including Beauvoir-sur-Mer, Bois-de-Céné, Bouin, La Plaine-sur-Mer, La Bernerie-en-Retz, Pornic, Saint-Brevin-les-Pins, and Préfailles.
In this third episode of Le Voyageur, viewers are treated to a mix of suspense and emotional depth as Bareski not only seeks to identify the criminal but also helps a grieving mother, played by Myriam Boyer, who has struggled to come to terms with her daughter's disappearance. The episode also introduces Florence Thomassin as a childhood friend who provides refuge for Marion's sister, who returns home after years away.
Critics have praised the episode for its engaging storyline and the powerful performances of its cast. According to a review from Bulles de Culture, "With 'Le voleur de nuits,' we are curious to see Cantona share the screen with Lubna Azabal. While the intrigue surrounding the fascinating submerged road of the passage du Gois delivers its share of suspense, the ending feels somewhat abrupt and rushed." This sentiment reflects a common critique of thriller narratives that can sometimes leave viewers wanting more resolution.
Meanwhile, another article published on the same day highlights a different aspect of Bareski's character. In a separate but related story, Bareski is depicted as an ex-cop who has taken it upon himself to pursue unsolved cases and unearth the truth about long-forgotten crimes. This narrative adds depth to his character, showcasing his determination to seek justice for victims that the police have failed to find.
The plot thickens with the kidnapping of Christine Bois's daughter, who vanishes while arriving by train from Paris to Montallier. The local authorities, led by Captain Cesnat, struggle to make progress in their investigation. Bareski's unconventional methods and his relentless pursuit of justice come to the forefront as he teams up with Christine, determined to uncover the truth about her daughter's disappearance and its potential connection to a series of murders of young women in the area.
This dual narrative structure not only highlights Bareski's commitment to seeking justice but also emphasizes the emotional stakes for the families involved. As the story unfolds, viewers are left to ponder the complexities of crime, memory, and the quest for closure.
As Cantona continues to portray this unique and gritty character, audiences are drawn into the world of Le Voyageur, where the lines between right and wrong often blur. The series has successfully created a space for exploring unresolved crimes while also delving into the personal stories of those affected by them.
With its engaging storytelling and strong character development, Le Voyageur remains a standout series on French television. The episode "Le voleur de nuits" is a testament to the show's ability to blend suspense with emotional depth, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
As the series continues to air, it will be interesting to see how Bareski's adventures evolve and what new mysteries await him in future episodes. The combination of Cantona's compelling performance and the intricate plots crafted by writer Hervé Korian ensures that viewers will remain invested in Bareski's journey.
For those who missed the original broadcast, the episode is available for streaming and replay on France.tv, allowing new audiences to discover the captivating world of Le Voyageur and the enigmatic Thomas Bareski.
