France 2 is celebrating the 35th anniversary of its iconic game show, Fort Boyard, with a special episode airing on Thursday, May 1, 2025. This beloved program, which first premiered on July 7, 1990, has become a staple of summer entertainment in France, and this anniversary is marked by a nostalgic look back at its history as well as thrilling new challenges for its participants.
Presented by Olivier Minne, the special episode is part of a two-part celebration of the show. The first episode aired on August 14, 2024, just a week after the passing of Patrice Laffont, the original host of Fort Boyard. This tribute episode attracted 1.7 million viewers, accounting for an impressive 11.3% audience share, showcasing the show's enduring popularity.
As the production team gears up for season 36, filming is set to begin shortly. The excitement for the new season is palpable, especially with the return of familiar faces in this special episode, including Jean-Pierre Castaldi, who co-hosted the show from 2000 to 2002. Castaldi expressed his emotions about returning to the fort, stating, "When you arrive here, it’s incredible; I have a lot of emotions!"
Joining Castaldi are a star-studded lineup of former participants and personalities associated with the show: Nathalie Simon, Norbert Tarayre, Isabelle Morini-Bosc, Frédérick Bousquet, and producer Alexia Laroche-Joubert. Together, they will compete to raise funds for the charity Rêves, which grants wishes to seriously ill children. This charitable aspect has been a hallmark of Fort Boyard, highlighting the show's commitment to giving back to the community.
The challenges featured in this special episode include some of the most beloved and memorable tests from the show’s history, such as the automatic laundry, bungee jumping, and the mysterious jars. Contestants will also face the infamous headhunter challenge, where they must navigate through a maze filled with insects. All of these challenges are designed to test the contestants' courage and wit, with the ultimate goal of collecting as many Boyards as possible.
A particularly exciting addition to this episode is the unveiling of a new room by the enigmatic character Père Fouras, titled "La Galerie des Portraits." This room is said to be haunted by former characters from the show, including Mégagaf, Magik le génie, and Jaba the pirate, who will reappear to challenge the contestants. The inclusion of these iconic figures adds an element of nostalgia for long-time fans of the show.
"We are thrilled to bring back these beloved characters and introduce new challenges that will entertain our audience while supporting a great cause," said a representative from France 2. This sentiment reflects the show's dedication to evolving while maintaining its core essence.
As the special episode unfolds, viewers can expect plenty of laughter and heartwarming moments. The challenges are not just about competition; they also foster camaraderie among the contestants as they work together to overcome obstacles. This blend of entertainment and charity makes Fort Boyard a unique fixture in French television.
In addition to the challenges, fans can look forward to seeing how the contestants handle the pressure of the game while reminiscing about their past experiences on the show. For instance, Nathalie Simon, known for her memorable moments on Fort Boyard, has become synonymous with the phrase "Faire une Nathalie Simon," which humorously refers to failing an early challenge.
The episode is set to air at 21:10 on France 2, coinciding with the extended holiday weekend, making it an ideal family viewing experience. This timing is strategic, as the show aims to attract as many viewers as possible to celebrate this milestone together.
As fans gear up for the special airing, the anticipation is not just for the challenges and the return of favorite characters, but also for the heartwarming stories of the children whose wishes will be supported through the efforts of the contestants. The Rêves association, which celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2024, has granted wishes for nearly 7,000 children, showcasing the profound impact of the charity.
In an era where television often focuses on sensationalism, Fort Boyard remains a refreshing reminder of the power of community and support. The show's ability to unite viewers through entertainment while making a tangible difference in the lives of children is a testament to its legacy.
As the clock ticks down to the airing of this special episode, fans are reminded of the joy, excitement, and community spirit that Fort Boyard has brought into their lives over the past 35 years. With a mix of nostalgia and new adventures, this anniversary special promises to be a memorable celebration of a beloved French television institution.
