Sophie Davant, the beloved French television presenter, is gearing up to take the stage on the popular dance show, Danse avec les stars, set to premiere on February 7, 2025. This decision marks not only a new adventure for Davant but also brings to the forefront her long-standing relationship with fellow presenter William Leymergie, whose own show will come to an end shortly after.
Recently, Davant shared her feelings with Le Parisien, saying, "I am sad this channel is ending as it has great audience ratings. And William succeeded in creating a show to match his image." With the anticipated ending of Leymergie's show on February 28, 2025, the couple finds themselves at a crossroads, both professionally and personally.
Having known Leymergie for over forty years, Davant reflected on their relationship, stating, "William, I know him for forty years. He has been everything to me: a mentor, a friend, and now we have transformed our relationship." This long history certainly adds depth to their partnership, demonstrating how their bond has evolved from professional camaraderie to romantic involvement.
Despite the excitement surrounding her participation, Leymergie expressed concerns about how Davant's appearance on the dance competition might affect her public persona, particularly her credibility as a serious host. Davant candidly shared, "He wasn’t necessarily on board with my participation. He feared it would discredit me, but just because you dance doesn't mean you lose your intellect!" This reveals the dynamic between the couple, where support also intersects with worry, especially considering their prominent public profiles.
Davant’s decision to join the show was partly influenced by her family and friends, who helped her weigh the pros and cons. She noted, "My children were supportive. It surprised me to see the younger generation engage with the show, as they watch it with friends, and even hold viewing parties." This engagement aligns with Davant's intention to resonate more with younger audiences, potentially reviving her career as she enters this new phase.
On the other hand, Davant maintains respect for her partner's feelings and the complexity of their relationship. During her appearance on Europe 1’s Culture médias program, she opted to keep certain aspects of their romance private, stating, "I am not alone in this adventure. I must ask for permission to share our story, and I'm not sure I will get it." This thoughtful consideration highlights her efforts to balance personal and public life.
Reflecting on her forthcoming dancing opportunity, Davant expressed enthusiasm about the experience itself rather than the competitive aspect of the show. She stated, "I want to be a banner for women of my generation. I love the idea of them thinking, why not me?" This sentiment encapsulates her hope to inspire others, showcasing resilience and joy at this stage of her life.
Davant's charisma and spirit shine through her determination to enjoy this new challenge, saying, "I want to have fun and share with others. Competition isn't my main motivation; it's about learning, discovering, and being harmonious with my dancer." This attitude sets the tone for how she approaches the upcoming season, with less focus on winning and more on personal growth.
With all these factors at play, the story of Sophie Davant and William Leymergie continues to evolve as they navigate their respective careers and personal lives together. Both public figures, they face the scrutiny and admiration from fans, which adds another layer of complexity to their already rich narrative.
Looking forward, the audience will not only witness Davant's dance performances but will also be privy to the subtleties of her relationship and how it plays out on-screen and beyond, as she takes this courageous step on Danse avec les stars, moving from behind the scenes to center stage.