Jacques Legros, a beloved figure in French television, presented his last 13h news broadcast on TF1 on May 9, 2025, marking the end of a remarkable 26-year tenure. The 74-year-old journalist became emotional as he bid farewell to his audience, reflecting on a career that has spanned more than two decades, during which he has become a household name in France.
Legros, who took over the role of joker for Jean-Pierre Pernaut in July 1999, has been a fixture in the midday news slot, providing viewers with the latest updates and stories from around the world. His final broadcast was a blend of nostalgia and humor, showcasing not only the news but also his deep connection with the audience.
During the broadcast, Legros humorously noted, "It’s my last journal, you must know that," as he introduced his successor, Isabelle Ithurburu. He emphasized the significance of the transition, saying, "Two women from the South, Marie-Sophie Lacarrau and you, succeed, in a way, two men from the North. It’s maybe the guarantee of having sunshine every day." This light-hearted comment was met with laughter, but it was clear that the moment was bittersweet for the veteran journalist.
To commemorate his departure, the broadcast concluded with an 8-minute tribute titled "26 Years at 13h, Thank You Jacques," narrated by Michel Izard. This segment highlighted Legros's contributions to the channel and featured memorable moments from his career. Legros expressed his gratitude towards the management of TF1, stating, "I would like to thank the management and the presidency of TF1 for whom age was not a criterion, which explains why I am still here today, and for whom only the result mattered."
As the broadcast progressed, Legros shared a touching anecdote about a devoted viewer named Lucette, who believed she was having lunch with him every day. He recounted, "She slightly confused the real and the virtual. And in fact, yes, I had eaten with her because I was in front of her when she took out her plate to have lunch. That, Isabelle, is the treasure of 13h, preserve it." His voice trembled with emotion as he recounted this story, illustrating the personal connections he has forged with his audience over the years.
Isabelle Ithurburu, who will take over as the new joker for Marie-Sophie Lacarrau, was visibly moved during the broadcast. She responded to Legros's heartfelt remarks by assuring him, "I will do everything to preserve this spirit." The emotional atmosphere was palpable, with applause ringing out from the technical team and colleagues in the studio as they celebrated Legros's contributions.
Throughout his career, Jacques Legros has been known for his engaging presence and his ability to connect with viewers. He has covered a wide range of topics, from significant national events to lighter stories, always with a touch of warmth and sincerity. His final broadcast included various segments, such as a report on the "blinding sun of the Opal Coast" and the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany in Russia.
Despite his retirement from the 13h slot, Legros has made it clear that he is not stepping away from journalism entirely. In an interview with Ouest-France published on March 26, 2025, he stated, "The notion of retirement does not exist for me," indicating his openness to new opportunities in the media landscape. He expressed a desire to continue working, particularly in radio, highlighting his passion for storytelling.
Reflecting on his long career, Legros acknowledged the challenges and joys of being a journalist. He mentioned that he had been afraid of "doing the journal of too many" and felt it was the right time to step down. His decision was not made lightly, but rather after careful consideration of his journey and the impact he has had on viewers over the years.
As he closed his final broadcast, Legros expressed his heartfelt thanks to his colleagues, referring to them as "musicians" in a "symphonic orchestra." He praised their dedication and talent, saying, "At TF1, we are fortunate to have only soloists. That doesn’t exist anywhere else, I tell you right away." His appreciation for his team underscored the collaborative spirit that has defined his time at the network.
Jacques Legros's departure from the 13h news slot marks the end of an era in French television. His warm personality and genuine connection with viewers will be missed, but his legacy will undoubtedly live on through the stories he has shared and the impact he has made in the lives of many. As Isabelle Ithurburu steps into her new role, she carries with her the spirit of Legros and the promise of continuing the tradition of excellence that he has established.
In a media landscape that is constantly evolving, Jacques Legros's journey serves as a reminder of the power of connection and the importance of storytelling in our lives. His final words resonated with viewers, leaving a lasting impression: "Thank you to all of you. I owe you a little explanation. Why does 'it’s not easy' come up regularly? It’s a little gimmick between us, every time we have something to do. It’s our playful side in the newsroom." With those words, he bid farewell, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, humor, and dedication to journalism.
