On Friday, May 9, 2025, Jacques Legros will present his last 1 p.m. newscast on TF1, marking the end of a 27-year career that has seen him become a household name in French journalism. Known for his calm demeanor and reliability, Legros has served as the official substitute for legendary presenter Jean-Pierre Pernaut since 1999, stepping into the role during significant moments in French history.
Legros’s journey began when he took over the 1 p.m. newscast, a position he maintained even after Pernaut’s retirement in 2021, when Marie-Sophie Lacarrau became the main presenter. As he prepares to pass the baton to Isabelle Ithurburu, Legros reflects on his time in front of the camera and the emotional weight of his final broadcast.
In an interview on the Buzz TV program on May 7, Legros opened up about his feelings regarding his departure. “You want me to cry right now?” he asked, revealing his anxiety about the day. He admitted, “I’m a bit anxious about how it’s going to go. I should know how to do the news, but since it’s the last, I’m not sure how well I can manage it.” He also shared that he has imagined a different ending for his farewell, stating, “It won’t be a speech, but I know what I’m going to say. It won’t be written down, so my colleagues won’t be able to read it!”
Legros’s career has not been without its challenges. He recalled a notable incident during the COVID-19 pandemic when tensions arose with Pernaut. “It was stupidly blown out of proportion,” he remarked, explaining that both were under immense pressure during the lockdown. “We were at the end of our ropes; Jean-Pierre was sick and had been asked to stay home. I had said, ‘If he wants to do the news, he can come back and do it!’” Despite the friction, Legros emphasized that he never intended to abandon his responsibilities, stating, “I’m a responsible person; you can’t just walk away from your channel on a whim.”
Marie-Sophie Lacarrau, who succeeded Pernaut, expressed her admiration for Legros in a heartfelt message shared on TF1 Info’s social media on May 5. “Jacques, a little message to say that I’m thinking of you. I know this week will be very special; it’s going to be a rollercoaster in your head,” she said. Lacarrau thanked Legros for the connection he built with viewers over the years, adding, “I look forward to reading the note you’ll leave for me on Friday.”
As Legros prepares for his final newscast, he is also aware of the significance of his departure. His last broadcast is expected to be packed with emotions and could potentially coincide with major news events, such as the announcement of a new pope. The anticipation surrounding his farewell has sparked conversations about viewership, with his predecessor Pernaut’s final broadcast drawing 8.13 million viewers, a staggering 59% of the audience.
In a poignant moment during his last week, Legros shared a light-hearted interaction with Ani Basar, a journalist who presented her legal segment on the show. As he thanked her, he added, “Merci… et gros bisous…,” a phrase that quickly went viral, capturing the affection and camaraderie he shared with his colleagues.
Looking back on his extensive career, Legros noted that his relationship with Pernaut was built on mutual respect rather than rivalry. “We always said, ‘Don’t worry, I’m not here to take your chair,’” he recalled. This understanding allowed them to navigate their roles without conflict, even when audiences fluctuated. “I won’t say it didn’t bother him when I had higher ratings sometimes… but he stayed quiet, and we didn’t talk about it.”
The upcoming transition to Isabelle Ithurburu has also been a topic of discussion. Legros expressed confidence in her abilities, noting, “She doesn’t come from the news, and that’s a good thing. She’s a journalist; she knows how to do it.” He also revealed that Ithurburu sought his advice on various aspects of the role, including pronunciation tips for names of fellow journalists.
As he faces his final moments on air, Legros remains committed to leaving a lasting impression. “I’m proud to leave my place to two women,” he stated, highlighting the significance of female representation in journalism. His departure marks not just the end of an era for TF1 but also a moment of reflection on the evolution of television news in France.
With his last broadcast approaching, Jacques Legros is set to say goodbye to the viewers who have welcomed him into their homes for nearly three decades. His legacy will undoubtedly influence future generations of journalists, and as he steps away from the spotlight, he leaves behind a rich history filled with memorable moments and a deep connection to the audience.
As the clock ticks down to his final appearance, Legros’s journey serves as a reminder of the power of journalism to inform, connect, and resonate with people across the nation. His heartfelt farewell will be a moment not to be missed, as he bids adieu to a career that has shaped the landscape of French news.
