Maya Lauqué has become one of the most recognized faces on French television, particularly as the host of the popular morning show Télématin alongside Damien Thévenot. Having transitioned from ambitious dancer to skilled journalist, Lauqué's career path is both compelling and inspiring.
Born in Bayonne, France, Lauqué dreamed of becoming a professional dancer and took her first steps toward her goal at the age of nine by attending the Opéra de Paris for training. Her passion led her to the Conservatoire national supérieur de musique et de danse de Paris. Everything seemed aligned for her to achieve stardom, yet at the age of 17, Lauqué encountered what she described as "a major disappointment" which prompted her to redirect her ambitions.
“I decided to throw in the towel,” Lauqué recounted, marking her departure from the world of dance. This pivotal moment nudged her toward journalism, which before long, became her new passion.
Transitioning to the media world, Lauqué quickly demonstrated her talent for engaging storytelling. She started her career presenting various shows, including 1 h 30 chrono with Thomas Hugues, but it was her dynamic pairing with Thomas Isle on La Quotidienne which truly captivated audiences. Despite the palpable chemistry on-screen, rumors surfaced about their relationship off-screen. Isle clarified during his guest appearance on Chez Jordan: "It wasn’t my type of girl," dispelling any misconceptions. His wife, he explained, knew Lauqué was not his style either.
Lauqué continues to host Télématin, delivering news and insights to viewers every morning, becoming one of the staple elements of viewers' routines. Yet, the path hasn’t always been smooth sailing. Recently, Lauqué recounted one of the most shocking experiences of her career during the early days at TPS Star, where she faced physical danger live on-air.
“I got electrocuted by my microphone pack,” she revealed. “I was at the English football stadiums, presenting live matches. It happened just when the commentators were handing over to me.” A sudden jolt of electricity coursed through her, but she managed to maintain composure, describing the moment as one of her worst experiences. “I felt like screaming since the shock was painful, but I had to remain professional.”
Despite the shocking experience, Lauqué's professionalism shone through, as she described how she tried to conceal her discomfort. “It was painful to manage live, trying to speak with electricity shooting through me.” It remained a tough night, compounded by miscommunication due to her limited English. “How could I explain I was receiving electric shocks during the show?” she laughed. “You just can’t!”
Despite her trials, Lauqué's charm and determination propelled her forward. Her life outside of television is equally fulfilling; she relishes motherhood, warmly recalling the birth of her son Lucien in April 2015 and her daughter Jeanne three years later. “Lucien is like sunshine to me,” she lovingly said. “And our Jeanne is THE sweetness.” It demonstrates how much of her joy and patience centers around family, balancing her career and personal life effortlessly.
Maya Lauqué’s story teaches us to embrace new pathways when faced with challenges. It's easy to feel disheartened when plans don’t work out, but her transition reminds us there’s always something new to explore. Lauqué exemplifies reinvention; after stepping away from one dream, she flourished with another. Her tale resonates not just with aspiring journalists but also with anyone facing uncertainties—demonstrated beautifully as she lights up screens with her smile, inspiring both children and adults alike.
Today, as Lauqué continues her role on France 2’s flagship 1 PM news show, her ability to connect with audiences and inspire others is indisputable. She proves happiness is about much more than success—it's about finding fulfillment through each twist and turn of life.
