Mathieu Stepson has made waves as he triumphed on December 20, 2024, at the finale of M6's La France a un incroyable talent, successfully capturing the coveted title after years of hard work and dedication to his craft.
This year marked Stepson’s second attempt at the talent show. His initial participation came seven years earlier, where he secured a spot in the semifinals. Returning with greater experience and determination, the magicien from Trouville-sur-Mer outshone the competition, especially notable since the show traditionally tends to highlight musicians and dance groups.
The grand finale was not only about taking home €100,000; it represented the culmination of months of testing his skills, creativity, and audience engagement. "I realize little by little how incredible this is... it’s cool! Now I can’t wait to create the next phases of my career,” he shared with excitement the day after his significant win.
Throughout the season, Stepson demonstrated his immersive approach to magic, frequently blurring lines between entertainment and awe-inspiring illusion. His style, presented as 'magic for the 21st century', was particularly memorable during the show’s finale, leaving both the audience and judges, including the often-critical Marianne James, thoroughly impressed.
Interestingly, Stepson approached this year's competition with humility, acknowledging other talented acts he thought could win. He mentioned the RB Dance Company as one of those groups he believed had strong odds to triumph due to their impressive performances. He expressed surprise at his own victory, stating, "I felt there was excitement around my performance, but I never imagined I would be the winner. I assumed the dance group would take home the prize because of their strong rapport with the audience…and they are just so talented!"
Stepson’s background adds depth to his artistic profile. While he has practiced magic since childhood, he did not initially envision making it his professional path. After dedicative years working at a crêperie, passion led him back to performing, where he steadily gained recognition through various performances across France, especially after his 2017 appearance on the very same show.
Reflecting on the cultural perceptions of magic, Stepson noted, “Magic is often viewed as child’s play here, but it has the potential to engage and fascinate audiences of all ages.” His remarks underline the aim to shift this outdated narrative and embrace magic as inclusive and pertinent to contemporary society.
Even before the final results were announced, Stepson had been inundated with the support of fans and colleagues, recognizing the rigorous nature of the competitive stages. "It was incredibly stressful yet exhilarating—each performance followed on the heels of the last, with barely enough time to breathe between sets,” he recounted, highlighting the demanding reality of the talent show.
While he has emerged victorious, Stepson expressed heartfelt compassion for his fellow performers, especially the finalists he had grown close to during their shared journeys. He admitted feeling guilty for winning when he had seen so many equally deserving talents. “It was wonderful to reach the finals with so much talent, but I feel for them too. They deserved recognition just as much as I do," he stated.
This victory paves the way for future endeavors for Stepson. While he has made strides as a magician, the question remains whether he can achieve the grand show he has always envisioned. Given the exposure and prestige from the recent win, industry insiders are optimistic about the doors it could open for him. His heartfelt commitment to his craft and aspiration for excellence is sure to resonate with audiences going forward.
Matheus Stepson’s experience serves as proof of perseverance and believing firmly in one’s dreams. With the curtain now raised on this new chapter, the magic world is watching closely, eager to see how he builds on this spectacular win.
