Jacques Legros, a beloved figure in French television news, is set to bid farewell to TF1's 13h news program after nearly 27 years of service. Known as the "joker" of the news segment, Legros has filled in for notable presenters such as Jean-Pierre Pernaut and Marie-Sophie Lacarrau, and his departure marks the end of an era for viewers accustomed to his familiar face during lunchtime broadcasts.
On March 26, 2025, Legros officially announced his departure to Ouest-France, revealing that he would present his last news broadcasts during the week of May 5 to May 9, 2025. At 74 years old, he expressed that the decision to step down was not easy, stating, "It has been on my mind for a while. I wanted to have the freedom of choice." Legros emphasized his desire not to overstay his welcome, saying, "I didn’t want to do the news too long or for someone to suggest it was time for me to leave. I wanted to leave while things were going well."
Legros, who first joined TF1 on July 19, 1998, has been a staple of the 13h news program, taking over from Pernaut during his absences and later from Lacarrau. He fondly recalled significant moments from his career, including covering the tragic events surrounding the Charlie Hebdo attack and the hostage situation at the Hyper Cacher in 2015. "These were moments that marked my career and the nation," he reflected.
As he prepares to step down, Legros is not only leaving behind a legacy of journalistic integrity but also paving the way for a new generation of news presenters. Isabelle Ithurburu, currently the host of "50 Minutes Inside," has been announced as his successor. Legros praised her selection, calling it "an excellent choice" and affirming that journalists from sports backgrounds bring a unique skill set to news reporting. "They have an incomparable ease. Sports journalism is the best school in journalism," he noted.
In his parting words, Legros shared some advice for Ithurburu, urging her to be sincere, to avoid playing a role, and to always verify information. He advised, "Carry your dictionary on your smartphone to check names, places, and spellings... credibility depends on it. Let what you truly are shine through, and above all, love the people you’re talking to." These words reflect the deep respect he holds for the profession and his commitment to high standards in journalism.
The final week of broadcasts promises to be emotional for Legros, who admitted, "I’m quite emotional, and I’ll have to keep my fists clenched under the table to hold it together." His departure is not a retreat into retirement; rather, Legros has expressed that the concept of retirement does not exist for him. He mentioned the possibility of exploring new ventures, perhaps behind the camera or even writing a book.
As viewers prepare to say goodbye to Legros, TF1’s Director of Information, Thierry Thuillier, paid tribute to his contributions, stating, "I salute the work of Jacques Legros, one of the great figures of the TF1 newsroom who has forged such a unique bond with viewers." Legros' legacy will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the channel and its audience.
Looking ahead, Ithurburu will officially take over the 13h news program in the summer of 2025, allowing her to bring her own style to the lunchtime slot. As the transition approaches, viewers and colleagues alike will undoubtedly reflect on the significant role Legros has played in shaping the news landscape in France.
In a world where the media landscape is constantly evolving, the departure of Jacques Legros serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of experience, authenticity, and connection in journalism. As he prepares for his final broadcasts, Legros leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered fondly by many.
