Michel Onfray made a surprising return to CNews on December 28, 2024, with his show "Face à Michel Onfray," catching many of his viewers off guard.
Initially announced to be on break for the holiday season, Onfray's unexpected appearance generated buzz among his loyal audience. The episode aired was designated as a best-of edition, featuring select segments from past shows, allowing fans to revisit significant discussions from the year.
Among the previously recorded exchanges, topics included the recent French legislative elections, which Onfray described as “un choix de civilisation,” or “a choice of civilization,” highlighting the pivotal nature of the electoral decision-making. This segment has drawn significant attention, reflecting Onfray's assertive views on political and social issues.
During this best-of edition, viewers were treated to engaging discussions surrounding the impact of contemporary events on French society, such as the rising Antisemitism since the attacks on Israel and significant moments like Pope Francis’s recent visit to Corsican communities.
Another contentious issue featured prominently was the trial of Marine Le Pen concerning alleged fictitious employee contracts linked to the National Rally party at the European Parliament. Onfray's take on this legal predicament offers insight on the broader political narrative within France.
Alongside these topics, the show examined Donald Trump's reinvigorated presence on the political scene, underscoring the impactful intersection of global events and domestic sentiments.
Onfray's program traditionally airs each Saturday at 1 PM on CNews, and viewers eagerly anticipate his first live episode of 2025, set to take place on January 4. The philosopher and essayist aims to surpass the notable viewership established late last year.
The last reported audience high for "Face à Michel Onfray" was on November 9, 2024, when the show amassed approximately 368,000 viewers, which accounted for 3.1% of the total audience across France.
CNews successfully positioned itself as the leader among continuous news channels during Onfray's run, also securing its status as the fifth national channel.
With Onfray’s return, there are heightened expectations concerning viewer engagement and the stirring of public discourse surrounding his outspoken perspectives on key societal matters.
Onfray's discussions frequently draw on historical references and analyses from his books and papers, appealing not just to political aficionados but to anyone invested in the multifaceted narrative of France’s cultural and societal shifts.
His perspective often contrasts sharply with mainstream narratives, inviting both support and critique. This duality has cemented his status as both a controversial and compelling figure within French media.
Fans and critics alike await to see how he will navigate the complex terrain of 2025’s political and social climate. There is no doubt his views will continue to provoke discussions, spurring interest around the themes of nationalism, identity, and the evolution of modern societal values.
With scheduled discussions on pressing themes such as national identity, the responsibilities of political leadership, and communal cohesion, the new season promises to be as consequential as the last.
It will be intriguing to observe how Onfray adapts to the changing political environment and addresses the challenges within French society moving forward. His show remains not just a platform for his thoughts, but also serves as a reflection of the broader national discourse.