Each week on France 2, "Un dimanche à la campagne" takes viewers away from the daily hustle and bustle, offering a sweet and authentic pause orchestrated by Frédéric Lopez. Since 2022, Lopez has been hosting this show from a country house located 80 kilometers from Paris, where he invites three guests to share their stories in a candid setting filled with laughter, tears, and heartfelt confessions.
To reach this serene abode nestled in nature, there's no red carpet; instead, guests arrive by boat, marking a departure from their everyday lives. "This place, I wanted it to reflect my personality, with wood, warmth, and even a few personal items in the library," Lopez explained to Gala earlier this year.
The picturesque setting, surrounded by rivers, fields, and soft light, creates an ambiance conducive to genuine exchanges. The house, decorated by a friend who is a film set designer, is rented year-round by the production team. The gamble seems to have paid off, as each episode serves as a breath of fresh air for viewers.
On Sunday, April 27, 2025, Lopez will host a trio of guests whose journeys have been marked by resilience. The first is Marc Lavoine, a 62-year-old singer and actor who has built his life around words. He will soon embark on a tour with "Revolver," an album where he revisits his hits alongside a symphony orchestra.
Joining him is Constance, a comedian who has faced significant challenges. "During my peak success, I fell into a severe depression. But today, I transform that pain into strength," she revealed. Finally, Philippe Besson, an author known for his tales of impossible loves, will also share his story. "I waited ten years before writing, out of fear of disappointing my parents," he admitted.
Lopez also shared some insights about the show's production. Why are the guest bedrooms hardly ever shown? "At first, we didn't film them, and some thought the guests were staying in hotels. We eventually included them, but during editing, they often get cut out," he explained. With two days of filming condensed into less than two hours on screen, choices have to be made. "There are so many powerful sequences that we have to prioritize. The bedrooms aren't the focus," Lopez acknowledged. Ultimately, the show delves into the inner lives of its guests far more than the physical spaces they inhabit.
The episode on April 27, 2025, airs at 16:00 on France 2, marking a much-anticipated return after several weeks of programming interruptions. Fans of the show can expect a powerful narrative as Lopez engages with his guests, exploring their dreams and the trials they have overcome.
Last week, the show attracted an impressive audience of 1.36 million viewers, capturing 16.7% of the television audience. Previous guests included Thierry Marx, Laura Felpin, and Jérémy Frérot, showcasing a diverse array of personalities.
This Sunday’s episode promises to maintain that momentum, featuring stories of resilience and personal growth. Lavoine, Constance, and Besson each embody a spirit of perseverance, making their discussions both relatable and inspiring.
Lopez's show is not just about the guests' careers; it’s about their personal journeys and the challenges they’ve faced. The intimate setting allows for a depth of conversation that resonates with viewers, creating a unique viewing experience that stands out in the crowded landscape of television programming.
As the episode approaches, anticipation builds around how these three guests will share their experiences and insights. With Lopez's gentle guidance, the discussions are likely to be heartfelt and poignant, reminding audiences of the strength found in vulnerability.
In addition to "Un dimanche à la campagne," Lopez will also celebrate the 20th anniversary of his other show, "Rendez-vous en terre inconnue," on Tuesday, April 29, 2025. This special episode will feature Kendji Girac as they venture to the desert plains of northwestern Kenya, exploring the lives of the Turkana people.
For those unable to catch the show live, "Un dimanche à la campagne" will also be available for streaming on France.TV, ensuring that fans can enjoy the heartfelt stories at their convenience.
As the show continues to evolve, it remains a beloved staple of Sunday afternoons, offering viewers a chance to connect with the stories of others while reflecting on their own lives. The combination of Lopez's warmth and the guests' compelling narratives creates an atmosphere that feels both intimate and expansive, inviting everyone to partake in the journey.
With each episode, "Un dimanche à la campagne" reaffirms the power of storytelling and the importance of sharing our experiences, no matter how challenging they may be. As viewers tune in this Sunday, they can expect an afternoon filled with laughter, tears, and the profound connection that comes from understanding one another's journeys.
