With the finale of Star Academy 2024 approaching, tension is high as Ulysse and Marguerite find themselves at risk of elimination. This week's theme, "A color, A song," provided contestants the freedom to express themselves and make several key decisions. Sadly for Ulysse and Marguerite, their performances didn't resonate well enough with the jurors, leaving them both nominated for potential elimination.
Marguerite had the opportunity to sing one of her favorite songs, "Le paradis blanc" by Michel Berger. Despite her enjoyment and passion during the performance, she failed to convince her teachers of her readiness. Conversely, Ulysse was penalized for his on-stage presence during his performance of "Drapeau blanc" by Dido. Both contestants, who were prominent figures of the class of 2024, suddenly faced the reality of their precarious situation.
Expressing her disbelief post-nomination, Marguerite approached Michael Goldman, the director, saying, "I’m really sorry, but I don’t understand." She reflected on her progress compared to the criticism she received previously, stating, "I feel like I’m progressing on what I was accused of last week. That’s why I find the grading harsh because it seems to dismiss my identity (...) I really felt like I had done well." Marguerite's frustration is palpable as she grapples with her unexpected nomination.
Meanwhile, Ulysse has shown resilience throughout the competition, having been previously saved by viewers on multiple occasions. It appears this week might not play out the same way, depending on audience support. According to recent voting intentions collected by polling site Sondages télé, Ulysse is currently leading with 61.7% of the votes, contrasted with Marguerite's 38.3%. This statistic indicates he has maintained significant public support, but there are signs of fluctuation based on the platform from which the votes are gathered.
A noteworthy disparity emerged between different social media platforms, with Ulysse gaining 74.7% on Facebook against Marguerite's 25.3%. Conversely, on X, Marguerite leads with 56.4% against Ulysse's 43.6%. Such contrasting results show the volatility and uncertainty inherent to audience voting dynamics, leaving the fate of the two contestants hanging in the balance.
The stakes couldn’t be higher as the results are set to be revealed live during the prime event tonight on TF1. The format of this elimination is distinct; the public has the power to decide which contestant stays and which one leaves, heightening the anticipation among viewers and participants alike.
Tonight’s prime event not only features the elimination but also showcases performances from the contestants, including special guests like Ben l’Oncle Soul, Linh, and Natasha St-Pier. Marguerite and Ulysse will each perform their solo songs during this spectacular event. Marguerite will take on "Corps" by Yseult, and Ulysse will present "Demi-Tour (Lili)" by AaRON.
Both will strive to convince the audience to keep them on the show during their solitary performances, emphasizing the true weight of the evening's results. The tension builds as fans eagerly await the live results, hoping their favorite contestant survives to continue their Star Academy adventure.
With the conclusion of this week's voting, only time will tell if Ulysse's past victories can resonate with the audience once more or whether Marguerite will surprise everyone with her fans' support. Tune in to TF1 at 21h10 for the reveal and to witness which of the two will bid farewell to their dreams of stardom.
