Julie Marcoux will take the reins as the new anchor for the 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. newscasts at TVA Nouvelles, stepping up after Sophie Thibault's announcement of her retirement. This change is set to take effect on June 20, marking the end of Thibault's notable 37-year career in journalism, of which 22 years were spent at TVA. Thibault's decision was influenced by her desire to slow down and focus on personal projects, including her newfound passion for photography.
Currently, Marcoux serves as the noon news anchor at TVA and has been recognized as one of the leading figures at Quebecor for several years. Her appointment is seen as part of the continuity at TVA, especially considering she had recently filled in for Thibault during her brief absences related to health issues.
Upon her appointment, Marcoux expressed her gratitude and excitement, stating, "To succeed Sophie Thibault, who has played a pioneer role in information, is an incredible opportunity for me. I realize a dream and accept this new challenge with humility and enthusiasm." With this transition, the TVA newsroom is gearing up for what has been described as a generational change—a move away from the tenures of Thibault and Pierre Bruneau, who were considered the main stars of the network.
Meanwhile, following Marcoux's promotion, Philippe-Vincent Foisy will take her place as the anchor for TVA Nouvelles at noon. Foisy has previously been the face behind the 'Salut Bonjour' news segments and will officially start his new role on the same day as Marcoux. He also shared his excitement about joining forces with Marcoux: "It’s a beautiful surprise to walk in the footsteps of those who paved the way! Being alongside Julie Marcoux is a great honor. Quality information is more necessary than ever. With the TVA Nouvelles team, we will continue to be there for the public."
Pierre-Olivier Zappa will remain at the helm of TVA Nouvelles at 10 p.m., where he has served since 2022, after taking the position previously held by Bruneau. This coordinated effort encapsulates TVA’s strategic move to blend youth and experience, ensuring they meet the changing demands for news delivery.
Anaïs Décarie, the editor-in-chief of TVA Nouvelles, emphasized this new team’s vision, asserting, "This dream trio of anchors united by their passion for current affairs will shape the future of news at TVA and LCN with a modern approach, but always respecting the accuracy of facts and diversity of ideas expressed on our airwaves." Her sentiment points to the transformative nature of these changes within the organization.
These shifts come at a time when the media environment is increasingly fast-paced and intense. With Marcoux, Foisy, and Zappa at the forefront, TVA Nouvelles aims to redefine its approach to news delivery, ensuring not only relevance but also adherence to the core journalistic values of accuracy and diverse viewpoints.
All eyes will be on June 20 as Marcoux steps onto the set for the first time as the anchor of the highly regarded supper hour newscast, fundamentally continuing the legacy of her predecessor, Sophie Thibault. Viewers will bid farewell to Thibault just the day before, on June 19, during what promises to be an emotional send-off filled with tributes from her colleagues.
The new leadership team at TVA Nouvelles signals exciting times ahead for viewers who depend on these respected journalists for their evening news. With Marcoux now positioned at the forefront, and her colleagues at her side, both the continuity and evolution of Quebec's news media are being showcased at TVA.