The Star Academy 2024 has seen its share of drama, but nothing compared to the waves of outrage following the recent elimination of contestant Marguerite during the prime broadcast on December 28, 2024. After weeks of fierce competition, Marguerite found herself pitted against fellow contestant Ulysse, with the audience voting based on their performances and the emotional investment they've made throughout the season.
This elimination came after the contestants enjoyed a week without nominations, but things quickly shifted as evaluations resumed. On this notable Saturday night, the remaining six contestants had the chance to shine with their chosen themes, where Marguerite and Ulysse were nominated for the week. Despite heartfelt performances, Ulysse was saved by public votes, resulting in Marguerite's departure.
Fans took to platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to express their dissatisfaction, rallying around Marguerite's talent and calling Ulysse's survival unjust. "Ulysse qui est encore sauvé face à Marguerite alors qu'il devait déjà être dehors depuis longtemps. J’en ai marre de cette saison," lamented one user, capturing the frustration shared by many of the show's viewers. This sentiment echoed across the social media platform as several others articulated similar feelings about the outcome.
The competitive atmosphere inside the Star Academy is intense, especially after performances were arranged under the theme “A color, a song.” Many expected showcases of strength and musicality, which were evident as students put their all on stage. Still, committee decisions and public votes dictated who advances and who goes home. Many saw Marguerite's elimination as indicative of larger issues within the show.
Further criticism erupted online, with fans condemning the voting process itself, characterizing it not just as subjective, but as possibly manipulated. "Donc là, ça sauve un mec qui chante faux et nominé six fois contre une chanteuse incroyable qui a son propre univers? Allez vous faire voir à sauver des twinks juste pour leur beauté," expressed one dissatisfied fan. Another chimed in, stating, "70% des candidats qui sont sortis cette saison ont été nominés de manière injuste. Les profs vous avez vraiment du sang sur les mains," clearly echoing the belief among viewers of unfair practices involved.
The lively performances of the contestants showcased both their determination and talent. For Marguerite, her emotional delivery had been praised leading up to the elimination, which only deepened the fans' disappointment. Ulysse, on the other hand, remained at the center of civil discourse among fans, many debating whether his consistent saves by the audience truly reflected his talent or merely his appeal.
The social media fallout revealed deep disappointment not only with the elimination but also with the overall mechanics of voting. Fans argued over the legitimacy of the results, insisting various contestants, especially talented women like Marguerite, deserved more respect and recognition from both the audience and the judges. "Marguerite ne mérite pas la Star Ac' et son public pourri de toute façon," another fan voiced their opinion harshly on X, highlighting the division felt by the audience witnessing the selection process.
After the prime, TV host Nikos Aliagas revealed the remaining contestants: Ebony, Franck, Marine, Charles, and Ulysse. With five contestants left, the countdown to the finals began, giving viewers even more reason to engage and hope for their favorites to triumph.
What remains evident is the passion the Star Academy evokes among its audience. Despite the discontent, these voting events keep audiences coming back for more, eager to see who rises and who falls, leading up to the final showdown expected on January 25, 2025. Even amid controversy, it seems the viewer's attachment to the reality show and its contestants continues to shape the experience, proving how influential such competitive platforms can become.
While frustrations linger, the anticipation for the next phase of the competition heightens. With the show already hinting at future casting opportunities for 2025, interested fans around France may soon see new faces making their way to the iconic château of Dammarie-les-Lys.
Whether future seasons can alleviate the concerns brought to light and whether they can recapture the magic of prior glory days remains to be seen. For now, what’s clear is the emotional rollercoaster this season has presented for both participants and viewers alike.