On March 19, 2025, French humorist Valérie Lemercier made headlines during her appearance on the TV show Quotidien. An announcement that started as a joke quickly captivated everyone, when she declared, "J’attends mon premier enfant à 61 ans, sans PMA, sans GPA et sans relation sexuelle," translating to, "I’m expecting my first child at 61, without IVF, surrogacy, or sexual relations." This humorous revelation not only caught the host Yann Barthès off guard but left viewers chuckling and scratching their heads, wondering if she was serious.
Lemercier, well-known for her sharp wit and engaging comedic performances, had a delightful knack for mixing humor with significant revelations. Her whimsical announcement was meant to set the stage for a bigger message, that she will return to the theatre with a new one-woman show after a nine-year hiatus.
Following the laughter that ensued, Lemercier laid out her plans for a performance at the Théâtre Marigny from October 15, 2025, to January 26, 2026. This will be her latest showcase in a career that spans over three decades, filled with accolades and memorable performances.
The actress and comedian, at 61 years, is far from a stranger to the stage. Lemercier has a rich history of theatrical success, with notable productions such as Valérie Lemercier au Splendide, where she began her journey in comedy back in 1989, and five one-woman shows that have cemented her status as a beloved figure in French entertainment.
As she discussed her process of writing and the rituals she follows before entering the spotlight, she reflected on her past achievements. These include the various characters she has portrayed over the years, captivating audiences with memorable performances in films like Les Visiteurs and Palais Royal!.
During her time in front of the cameras, Lemercier’s playful banter with Barthès showcased her ability to engage the audience, with her announcing, "Oui, et surtout que j'ai une très grande nouvelle à vous annoncer, donc ça me rend joyeuse"—"Yes, and especially that I have a very big announcement to make, which makes me happy." Barthès, amused and bewildered, playfully questioned how she wanted to announce this news, leading to more laughter as Lemercier confidently affirmed her playful proclamation.
But what further intrigued viewers was her quip about the announcement being a "miracle." To this, she added, "C'est un miracle !"—"It's a miracle!" leaving fans of the show buzzing about whether her statements had a deeper meaning.
Interestingly, despite her humorous take, Lemercier had previously shared her thoughts on motherhood. Back in 2011, she expressed her feelings of having moved past the desire for children, stating in an interview with Paris Match that she had relinquished those dreams, only to confirm in 2020 with L'Obs that she could not have children, dismissing it as not a tragedy.
Her witty spin on this topic draws attention to the interplay of humor and touchy subjects, a signature of her performances that endears her to many. Now, her planned return to the stage acts as the real "baby" in her life, establishing her commitment to deliver entertainment to her audience.
As she prepares for her new show, Lemercier signaled hope and amusement, embodying the spirit of resilience that many have come to admire in her. Tickets for the new production can already be purchased at her official website, allowing fans to witness her highly anticipated return.
In summation, Valérie Lemercier continues to be a testament to the effectiveness of humor in tackling life's complexities. Her blend of personal anecdotes and comical exaggeration remains refreshing, marking her as a prominent figure in contemporary entertainment. As she steps onto the stage once more, there's no doubt her charm and comedic brilliance will once again captivate audiences.
