Eve Gilles has been captivating audiences each week on TF1's "Danse Avec Les Stars," but the Miss France 2024 is contending with an invisible challenge that shadows her performances. Diagnosed with paroxysmal dyskinesia, a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary movements, Gilles is navigating the complexities of choreography while raising awareness about her condition.
On March 14, 2025, Gilles danced as Sandy from the beloved musical Grease, a performance that showcased her talent and determination. However, the choreographic demands of the show often present significant hurdles for her. In an intimate conversation with Konbini, the 21-year-old shared her journey. "I had this illness since I was eight years old, but I chose to keep it silent during my early days as Miss France. It was a very large part of my life, and I didn't want it to define me, as both a woman and a titleholder," she explained.
Paroxysmal dyskinesia involves episodes of involuntary movements that can last between 25 and 40 seconds. Gilles noted, "Sometimes it could be a sudden movement of the arm or even my face. These are actions that I can’t control for a brief time." Despite experiencing these challenges, including during her time as Miss France, Eve has found ways to cope. "I’ve had therapy before, but recently, it has been manageable. I can hide my episodes, and I am learning to live with this diagnosis," she remarked.
During her journey on "Danse Avec Les Stars," Gilles has relied heavily on the support of her partner, Nino Mosa, who has become a key figure in her life both on and off the dance floor. Mosa, only 22, brings a wealth of experience to the competition, having been immersed in dance from a young age. “Dance is an integral part of my life; my sister and girlfriend are dancers too. I’ve been practicing since 2010 and never looked back,” he shared.
Since the show's season premiere on February 7, 2025, Mosa has worked tirelessly to uplift Gilles during their rehearsals, mindful of the physical toll the show demands. “While I manage the pressures better due to my background in competitive dance, I check in on Eve regularly to make sure she’s okay. We take breaks when necessary to coordinate our energies,” he added. His approach is one that combines professional rigor with empathy, recognizing that for Gilles, maintaining stamina can be particularly daunting.
The latest episode on March 21 also featured a special surprise for Gilles: her boyfriend Simon made an unexpected appearance as part of the theme, “invité mystère,” which translated to “mystery guest.” This revelation marked a delightful twist in the competition as Gilles performed with Mosa. Shortly after her routine, Simon, having hidden in the wings during the show, stepped onto the dance floor to greet her, saying, "I’m Simon, and I’m Eve’s boyfriend. We met during her first local election, where I was on the jury, and we’ve been together for over a year and a half now." The moment was filled with joy as Simon noted, "I’m here to surprise her because she truly deserves this moment."
Gilles, visibly moved, managed to retain her focus during the show despite the surprise. “Having Simon's support makes all the difference. He has seen me through my ups and downs, and it boosts my confidence on stage immensely,” she expressed. This emotional appearance not only reinforced their bond but also served as an uplifting narrative amid the competition, accentuating Gilles's perseverance.
The drama on “Danse Avec Les Stars” extends beyond the strap and lighting, as many participants, including Gilles and Mosa, navigate poignant stories through dance. The competition has featured thrilling eliminations, reinforcing the stakes; Charlotte de Turckheim found herself leaving the show last week, increasing the urgency for Gilles to perform well and remain in the competition.
For Gilles, her journey transcends personal achievement; it’s about providing hope and a voice for those grappling with invisible disabilities. She stated, “What drives me to speak out is not solely about making my illness known; it's about being a beacon of hope for those who face invisible struggles and don't know how to respond.” This sentiment speaks volumes about her character and ambition, underscoring the importance of community and support in confronting challenges.
As the weeks unfold, viewers can expect more captivating performances aboard a stage that profoundly affects both contestants and audience alike. Gilles, with her resilience and continued advocacy for those like her, embodies the spirit of determination. "Danse Avec Les Stars" not only presents an entertainment spectacle, but it also fosters important conversations about health, identity, and community support, making it all the more enriching for those who tune in week after week.
