Garance Pardigon, a prominent journalist on TF1's morning show "Bonjour!", bid farewell to her colleagues on April 17, 2025, as she embarks on maternity leave to welcome her second child. The announcement was met with warmth and support from her fellow presenters, particularly Bruce Toussaint, who praised her dedication and hard work during her pregnancy.
During her final broadcast, Pardigon reflected on the challenges of balancing her demanding role with the joys and trials of impending motherhood. "It's always, I believe, a special moment for a future mom. Between the relief of finally being able to rest and a flood of questions about what comes next," she shared. Bruce Toussaint presented her with a bouquet of flowers, acknowledging the difficulties of being a morning news anchor, which requires waking up in the middle of the night.
Pardigon, who is already a mother to a four-year-old son named Joseph, had previously disclosed her struggles during this pregnancy, including a bout with toxoplasmosis, a condition that can pose risks to fetal development. Fortunately, after receiving antibiotic treatment, medical examinations confirmed that her baby girl is healthy. "At four and a half months pregnant, I finally have the certainty: everything is fine in my belly," she expressed joyfully.
Stepping into her shoes during her absence is Solenn Riou, a talented journalist who has been with the TF1 group since 2018. Riou's first appearance alongside Toussaint is set for April 18, 2025, at 7 a.m. Her selection to fill this role aligns with TF1's strategy of nurturing internal talent and promoting capable journalists within the organization.
Solenn Riou, originally from Nantes, has a background in athletics, having competed at a high level in cross-country running before transitioning to journalism. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communication from Sam Houston State University in Texas and earned a master’s degree in television journalism from the Centre de Formation des Journalistes (CFJ) in Paris in 2017. Before joining TF1, Riou honed her skills at various media outlets, including ITélé, BeIN Sports, and RMC Sport.
Riou has made a name for herself in the field, covering significant events such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine, where she produced an impactful report titled "Dans l’enfer de l’Ukraine, 21 jours sur le front." She has also reported on major international incidents, including the October 7 attack in Israel, the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, and the U.S. presidential election.
Having already filled in for Pardigon on two occasions earlier this month, on April 4 and 11, 2025, Riou is no stranger to the "Bonjour!" team. Her experience and commitment to journalism make her a fitting choice for this interim role.
As Pardigon prepares for her new chapter as a mother, she leaves behind a legacy of hard work and dedication to the craft of journalism. Her colleagues and viewers alike will undoubtedly miss her presence on the airwaves but are excited for her upcoming journey into motherhood.
In a heartfelt moment, Pardigon remarked to Toussaint, "I have a bit of the impression that we have already made a child together, you and I. Because working on this morning news, we haven't slept, we've lived intensely crazy moments, and despite all these difficulties, we are proud and happy. And besides, we will meet again!" This sentiment encapsulates the camaraderie and shared experiences that define the team at "Bonjour!"
As Solenn Riou steps into the role, viewers can anticipate a fresh perspective and continued commitment to delivering quality news coverage. The transition signifies not just a change in personnel but a continuation of the show's legacy of excellence in journalism.
With her impressive background and passion for storytelling, Riou is poised to make her mark on the morning show, ensuring that the audience remains informed and engaged during Pardigon's maternity leave.
As the team at "Bonjour!" prepares for this transition, they look forward to welcoming Pardigon back after her maternity leave, ready to share her experiences and insights as a new mother.
