Tomorrow, February 28, two emblematic channels belonging to the PAF network will cease to exist on TNT: C8 and NRJ12, both shuttered arbitrarily by Arcom. For its last day of broadcasting, NRJ12 will air a special farewell program, as outlined in their press release.
"NRJ 12 WILL BROADCAST A SPECIAL FAREWELL PROGRAM ON FEBRUARY 28, 2025. It is with deep emotion..." the channel announced.
This exceptional program, titled "20 Years of Great Emotions," will be broadcast at 9 PM and will celebrate the rich history of NRJ12, which has been entertaining viewers for twenty years. Viewers can expect to see many highlights during this emotionally charged evening as the channel bids its audience farewell.
The evening, hosted by Ayem Nour, will feature cult images, memorable moments, and surprises from the channel's storied past. It will revisit popular reality shows like "Les Anges," "Allo Nabilla," and "L'île des vérités," as well as groundbreaking talk shows such as "Le Mag," which catered to the youth demographic.
Many luminaries who have played pivotal roles at NRJ12 will be present, including Nabilla, Thomas Vergara, Benoît Dubois, and Amélie Neten. They will share personal reflections on their time at the channel and recall their favorite moments as the curtain draws on its legacy. "NRJ12 opened doors for us... we owe them everything!" stated reality star Thomas Vergara, echoing the sentiments of many who found fame through the channel.
Since its inception, NRJ12 has been marked by bold programming choices and innovation. It became particularly known for its evening shows, which featured captivating and occasionally outrageous content. According to Maureen Lepers, a doctor of cinema and audiovisual studies, the channel was once labeled as the "bad boy" of the PAF network, providing stellar entertainment filled with humorous and relatable content.
Over the years, as viewership dipped, NRJ12 struggled to maintain its unique identity. "There was no longer the same draw for reality TV audiences as there once was," noted Emilie Picch, the channel's former presenter. "It’s difficult, even impossible, to exist with reruns without interaction. This isn’t a viable economic model," she added, explaining how the channel's pivot to reruns contributed to its eventual demise.
Despite its decline, many former participants and fans cherish the memories created during the channel's prime. Clara, 35, from Marseille, reminisced, "I was addicted to 'Les Anges' and 'Allo Nabilla'—it was my daily routine. I could easily identify with the participants." Similarly, Rémi Notta, who participated in multiple NRJ12 shows, shared, "It was a young and dynamic channel, very cool to watch."
With the final broadcast looming, NRJ12 has stunned many, including its former employees. "We're proud of the path we’ve taken and grateful to our viewers who have accompanied us until the end," the channel expressed. They issued this heartfelt farewell to honor the loyalty of their supporters and to reminisce on two decades filled with thrilling entertainment.
This emotionally charged final evening will serve as both nostalgia and celebration for those who grew up with the channel. With former stars united for one last hurrah, NRJ12 hopes to leave its imprint on the viewers before the screen goes dark.
Set your reminders for this monumental evening on February 28 at 9 PM, as NRJ12 bids its loyal fans goodbye, marking the end of an era.