Today : Jan 06, 2025
Arts & Culture
05 January 2025

Star Academy 2024: Contestants Battle For Semi-Final Spots

Public votes will determine which students advance after emotional performances and guest appearances.

The competition escalates as the "Star Academy 2024" students vie for their places in the semi-finals. With Ebony already securing her spot, Charles, Franck, Ulysse, and Marine must shine to win the public's favor.

Tonight’s prime features support from celebrated artists, including MC Solaar, Gaëtan Roussel, and Héléna, who join the students on stage. To celebrate Ebony’s qualification, she shares the stage with her mentor, Clara Luciani, where they perform the heartfelt duet "Heart." Luciani praises her, saying, “You are a star, Ebony. You’ve become one of my new favorite singers.”

The evening is filled with individual performances as well. Charles captivates the audience with his rendition of Conchita Wurst’s "Rise Like a Phoenix," earning compliments from judges for his impressive vocal growth. Sofia Morgavi states, “You’ve risen from your previous struggles; you are truly gifted.”

Meanwhile, Franck surprises the audience with his collaboration on “Bouge de là” alongside the legendary MC Solaar, who commends him for exuding modern elegance. “You are made of the same material as MC Solaar,” says Hughes Hamelynck, praising his stage presence.

Marine brings glamour to the stage with her vibrant performance of Gloria Gaynor's “I Am What I Am,” donning attire reminiscent of 1960s shows. Her dynamic entry and powerful delivery leave the audience and judges, including Malika Benjelloun, astonished, who exclaims, “You created a grand spectacle!”

Ulysse takes on Téléphone's "Cendrillon" and, true to his rocker persona, ends his act under confetti, much to the audience's delight. Marlène notes, “You delivered the best version of yourself on stage.”

Ebony, already assured her finals position, takes the opportunity to perform "L'Hymne à l'amour" by Edith Piaf, adapted for the occasion. This moment resonates deeply with both her and the audience, as tears well up during her purely emotional delivery. Her performance draws remarks from Hughes Hamelynck, stating, “Your eyes said everything at the end of the song; you are truly a diva.”

The high-stakes nature of the evening culminates with a collective performance of “Je ne suis qu’une chanson” by the four nominees, building anticipation as public votes will determine who continues to the semi-finals.

Earlier this week, each remaining contestant faced evaluations through singing, dancing, and acting challenges, leading to one deliberate elimination. While Ebony's advancement has been confirmed, the remaining contestants—the nominated Charles, Ulysse, Franck, and Marine—must leave no stone unturned this evening.

Tonight's guest lineup is bolstered by the return of Helena, who performs her recent hit "Mauvais garçon" with Marine, highlighting the supportive atmosphere and featuring both burgeoning talent and seasoned stars.

With emotions running high, music is the heart of this competition. Charles, again highlighting his humor and energy, performs with Gaëtan Roussel. The two share the stage for “J’t’emmène au vent,” fueling the evening with lively camaraderie. Roussel praises Charles, noting, “You’ve danced through this entire show!”

Finally, Franck's solo performance of "Pour ne pas vivre seul" by Dalida reveals his vocal prowess and intense connection with the material, prompting Michael Goldman to state, “He is too talented for this!”

With all nominees presenting their best efforts, the winner of the public vote will emerge only after the final performances. Tensions run high, but the promise of artistry and teamwork shines through, with the lesson learned from the heartfelt exchanges and collaborative moments shared tonight.

Throughout the competition, the concept of support—whether via mentors or peer collaboration—has been reiterated. Following tonight's performances, the pivotal decision will be made, determining who advances to the semi-finals and who must bid farewell to the Academy.

Will this be the moment wherein the audience’s connection to their favorites dictates the future of the competition? The spotlight now shifts to the viewers, eagerly waiting to cast their votes. The results of this thrilling chapter will mark another unforgettable moment for the "Star Academy 2024".