On February 7, 2025, TF1 kicked off the 14th season of the beloved dance competition, Danse avec les stars, featuring notable personalities such as Adil Rami, Franck Leboeuf, Charlotte de Turckheim, Julie Zenatti, alongside recently eliminated contestants Nelson Monfort and Sophie Davant. This season sees the participation of 19-year-old Lénie Vacher, already renowned from her time on Star Academy 2023, paired with professional dancer Jordan Mouillerac.
This season commenced with excitement as Lénie prepared to showcase her skills with her rumba performance to Edith Piaf's classic 'L’hymne à l’amour'. During rehearsals, Lénie faced challenges expressing herself fully. Jordan urged her to momentarily set aside the technical aspects of the performance. “I want you to focus on the magic, the pleasure of dancing together,” he told her, emphasizing the importance of emotional expression over choreography. Despite his encouragement, Lénie found it difficult to release her inhibitions and communicate through her movements, leading to her emotional outburst during one session.
“I don’t know, it’s the first time I don’t know,” she admitted, overwhelmed during practice. Jordan, ever supportive, reassured her, stating, “You’re going to express yourself. It’s not easy, but if you block during rehearsals, you won’t be at 100% during the prime.” The pressure was mounting as the performance date approached.
On March 14, 2025, the air was thick with anticipation for Lénie's live rumba performance on TF1. Her previous work earned her commendable scores, having previously registered 36 points two weeks earlier. That evening, facing the judges and the audience, Lénie carried the excitement of competition alongside her nerves.
Upon taking the stage, she was adorned with wavy hair and wearing a dazzling black bodysuit, setting the scene for her much-anticipated performance. During her rumba, Lénie adeptly balanced the technical demands of the dance with the judges’ expectations for emotional expression, effectively captivating her audience. Chris Marques, famed for his discerning eye, gave her performance high praise. “It’s incredible... and we’re not even halfway through the competition,” he stated after awarding her with one of his coveted scores of ‘9’.
Fellow judge Mel Charlot, unable to fault her performance, echoed similar sentiments and bestowed another ‘9’. Jean-Marc Généreux, not one to shy away from offering high marks, also awarded Lénie with his score of ‘9’, highlighting how her interpretation was “technically almost flawless.” Fauve Hautot, another ally, noted some minor inaccuracies yet still acknowledged Lénie's growth with another score of '9'. All told, Lénie achieved another fantastic total of 36 out of 40.
Lénie's remarkable progress this season reflects her growth not just as a dancer but as someone learning to navigate the pressures of performance art. With three weeks left to flourish, her evolution continues to surprise judges and audiences alike. “It’s about crafting your allure and confidence on the dance floor,” remarked Jordan, reinforcing his unwavering support as she juggles the dance complex and her distinct onstage persona.
This thrilling endeavor is not only about technical perfection but also about translating the artistry and heart of each dance. The judges’ thoughtful guidance and Lénie's commitment to improvement make for compelling weekly television. It is clear Lénie is not just participating; she is leaving her mark on Danse avec les stars — one performance at a time.