Laurence Boccolini Rejects France Télévisions’ offer, Cites Creative Restrictions
PARIS - Television presenter Laurence Boccolini has turned down a renewal offer from France Télévisions, citing limitations on her freedom of speech as the primary reason. The decision follows a strained departure from TV Kids and a public airing of grievances regarding her treatment by the network and fellow presenter Faustine Bollaert.
Boccolini, 61, recently revealed her fee for co-hosting Eurovision last May – a surprisingly modest 6,000 euros for three days of work – a disclosure she made to challenge the perception of lavish earnings within the television industry. “It’s not a jackpot, far from it,” she stated, emphasizing the intensive workload involved.
The offer from France Télévisions, details of which have not been publicly disclosed beyond its existence, was reportedly contingent on an exclusivity clause Boccolini found unacceptable. “I no longer want to be told what I shoudl or should not say. I have always been transparent, and that will not change,” she confided to sources close to her.
Her departure from TV Kids was described as abrupt, learning of her replacement, Faustine Bollaert, via text message. Boccolini expressed disappointment with Bollaert’s communication, stating, “She didn’t even call me.She told me she was sorry and that she didn’t know I had nothing left. She talked about ‘sisterhood’… Frankly, we have to stop using that word.“
In a press release to AFP,Boccolini confirmed her exit,stating she left France TV “with regret” but prioritizing her ability to speak openly. She has been a visible figure on French television for decades, known for her direct and often self-deprecating style.
