Intervilles, the beloved French game show, is making its eagerly anticipated return to screens on Thursday, July 3, 2025, after years of delays, primarily due to pandemic setbacks. The show will air every Thursday evening throughout the month, reigniting the festive competition between cities across France. This update was officially announced during the France-Scotland rugby match on March 15, 2025, featuring a short, ten-second trailer excitedly received by fans.
Leading the helm of this classic show is popular host Nagui, who brings his energetic presence back to the show after many years. He will be joined by familiar faces including Bruno Guillon, who will assist him by championing one of the two competing cities. The excitement doesn’t stop there; two former Miss France winners—Camille Cerf and Valérie Bègue—will also join the crew, bringing their charisma and experience to connect with the audience. Magali Ripoll, known for her role on N’oubliez pas les paroles, will entertain as the musical host, complemented by Yoann Riou, the L'Équipe commentator, serving as the judge-arbitrator.
This latest iteration of Intervilles will not feature live animals, a decision Nagui made to prioritize animal welfare. Speaking to Ouest-France, he explained, “We do not need this. Animals are sensitive to noise and discomfort… not to mention the risk of injury for humans involved.” Instead, viewers will be introduced to Topa, a whimsical foam mascot created by Zep, the renowned illustrator of the comic strip Titeuf. “Topa will participate and bring fun, but it will be made of foam with someone inside,” Nagui mentioned, adding both humor and charm to the new setup.
Fans of the original series need not worry; the essence of the game will remain intact. Classic challenges, including the famous 'tournettes,' swimming pools, and the rope pull, will still feature prominently, ensuring the engaging spirit of competition is preserved. The show's revival marks not only the return of familiar games but also symbolizes resilience after years of challenges including this year’s pandemic-related delays.
While the excitement around Intervilles takes center stage, another thrilling new program is set to launch on France Télévisions: L’anneau. This adventure-based game show, hosted by Laurent Luyat, promises to challenge thirteen contestants with extreme conditions and survival tactics. Scheduled to begin filming the week of March 24, 2025, the show will take participants to Isola 2000, where they will navigate challenging terrains at 2500 meters altitude.
During his appearance on Quelle époque! Luyat shared insights about the high-stakes environment contestants will face: “We will be working against the cold, snow, and even wolves, all of which could be lurking nearby. Contestants will spend eleven to twelve days under these conditions, confronting both physical tests and mental hurdles with the ‘evil virtual ring’ controlling their fate.” Contestants must remain inside the 'ring,' which will either shrink or expand, threatening elimination for those who dare to step out.
L’anneau, like Intervilles, aims to blend competitive challenges with family entertainment, drawing inspiration from popular shows such as Fort Boyard and Koh-Lanta. The combination of heritage, excitement, and extreme sports is expected to attract not only devoted fans but also new viewers, eager to tune in for thrilling displays of endurance and teamwork.
Returning to the beloved format of Intervilles, viewers are assured of plenty of laughter, fun, and dynamic competitions—without the presence of live animals. The embrace of modern technology and sensibilities fits well with current trends, drawing audiences back to the screen. Social media platforms dedicated to Intervilles have already launched, fueling anticipation among potential viewers eager to relive their childhood memories and share the excitement with family and friends.
This revival of Intervilles speaks not only to the nostalgia of long-time viewers but also signals France Télévisions' commitment to evolve and remain relevant in the changing media environment. The iconic show, which celebrates summer, competition, and camaraderie, is poised to be among the highlights of 2025’s television schedule.
With all the excitement surrounding its return, fans should mark their calendars for July 3, 2025—when Intervilles arrives with familiar games adapting to modern audiences, infused with genuine care for animal welfare embodied by Topa, the cheerful new mascot. The anticipation for L’anneau, with its unique challenges, offers another avenue for families and friends to bond over competitions filled with laughter and memorable moments. Be prepared for captivating entertainment as France Télévisions rolls out two compelling new shows uniquely fit for the current generation.
