The recent investigation by Mediapart has uncovered disturbing incidents surrounding popular television host Cyril Hanouna and his show, "Touche pas à mon poste!" (TPMP). Published on March 18, 2025, the report sheds light on numerous violent incidents, threats, and questionable practices that have taken place behind the scenes of the show, intensifying scrutiny as Hanouna prepares to join Groupe M6.
In a particularly shocking revelation, the report delves into an incident from October 2019 in which Hanouna’s friend and fellow comedian, Malik Bentalha, was on set to promote his latest show. While Bentalha entertained the audience, an orchestrated attack unfolded backstage involving his then-manager, Sofiane Mejot. Allegedly led by Jean-Rachid Kallouche, a music producer closely associated with Hanouna, Mejot was assaulted in the dressing room. Witness statements describe the situation as a “kill,” indicating that the attackers had the intention to harm rather than intimidate.
"They locked him in the dressing room, alone, and then henchmen entered," recounted a former staffer, emphasizing the calculated nature of the attack. The assailants, reportedly able to bypass security checks at Canal Factory, subjected Mejot to brutal violence, leading to serious injuries. Witnesses asserted that the beating continued until an external intervention disrupted it, while police were called to the scene later. However, despite the severity of the injuries, the incident ultimately faded into obscurity when the Nanterre prosecutor's office later shelved the case due to insufficient follow-through from the plaintiff.
Another alarming dimension of the report highlights an altercation in February 2023, where Hanouna allegedly threatened Matthieu Delormeau, a previously cherished member of the TPMP team, for not adequately responding to his humor. According to recordings obtained by Mediapart, Hanouna is heard stating, “If you weren’t my friend, I would beat you up.” Despite these recordings, Hanouna’s representatives have denied that any threatening statements were made.
According to sources from the report, several personalities have expressed concerns about Hanouna’s behavior, including television figures Karine Lemarchand and Michel Cymes, as well as others opting to distance themselves from him. Cymes has gone so far as to announce plans to file legal action against Hanouna, while Lemarchand criticized his actions, indicating a pervasive culture of fear and intimidation surrounding the popular host.
In addition to these allegations, Mediapart pointed to ethical issues related to the production of TPMP. Allegations surfaced concerning Hanouna’s practice of compensating guests to ensure favorable appearances on the show. Notably, reality television star Loana reportedly accepted 3,000 euros to feature on the program while sharing her traumatic experiences, raising questions about the ethical implications of such practices.
The report also detailed exorbitant salaries for members of Hanouna's team, often dwarfing the payouts offered to guests. For example, Mediapart estimated that TPMP chroniclers could earn between 12,000 and 13,000 euros per night, with individual salaries for popular figures like Kelly Vedovelli, Eric Naulleau, and Yann Moix reportedly landing at the 16,000 euros mark. This staggering disparity in pay raises critical questions regarding the compensation fairness within the show's ecosystem.
With speculation ongoing regarding Hanouna's transition to Groupe M6 later this year, critics are pondering whether this behavior will continue unaddressed or if the new environment will foster a more professional atmosphere. In light of the investigation by Mediapart, discussions are ongoing about the ramifications of Hanouna's management style and the culture surrounding "Touche pas à mon poste!"
As the revelations from Mediapart circulate through various media channels, they underscore broader concerns about the television industry, which often operates behind closed doors devoid of accountability. If these allegations prove true, they could fundamentally reshape viewers' perception of Hanouna as not merely a television entertainer but as a figure entrenched in controversy and misconduct.
The investigation has cast a long shadow over Hanouna's career just as he prepares to embark on a new chapter in his broadcasting journey. With a growing number of voices speaking out against him and his inner circle, it remains to be seen how audiences will respond to his upcoming role in the M6 network, where he is expected to make a significant impact in the media landscape.
As the dust settles on this shocking exposé, one thing is clear: the challenges ahead for Hanouna and his show are greater than ever, leaving many to wonder if this marks a turning point in the relationship between media personalities and the standards of accountability expected of them.
