Mosimann broke down in tears during Star Academy season premiere
Mosimann broke down in tears during the opening prime of the 2026 season of Star Academy on TF1 on Saturday, October 10, 2026, after a contestant performed a song by his close friend Barbara Pravi.
The 38-year-old DJ, who won the reality singing competition in 2008, took over as the new director of the show produced by Endemol France for this season. He succeeded Michael Goldman, who fronted three seasons. Mathieu Vergne of DMLS TV appeared on “Puremédias, l’hebdo” on T18 on Sunday, October 4, 2026, to discuss the production changes and the new lineup of 17 candidates.
Tears on Set During the Season Premiere
The emotion began immediately as the broadcast opened around 21:15 on TF1. Mosimann addressed host Nikos Aliagas regarding his return to the format. “C’est énormément d’émotions, Nikos. Je retiens mes larmes depuis le début de cette soirée. C’est incroyable ce qu’il se passe ce soir. Merci pour votre accueil”, Mosimann said on air. Nikos Aliagas responded to him live, noting the unique feeling of his homecoming.
Later in the evening at 22:30, a 20-year-old singer named Isabella from Ris-Orangis performed “Louis” by Barbara Pravi. The rendition pushed the new director to tears.
Ma chère Isabella, c’est beaucoup d’émotion pour moi. C’est une chanson qui est très importante pour moi. C’est une chanson de Barbara Pravi, une de mes meilleures amies. C’est une chanson qui compte énormément pour mon histoire. C’est une chanson qui demande surtout pas la perfection, c’est une chanson qui demande la vérité, que la vérité. Et ce soir, vous me l’avez transmise. J’ai ressenti ce que vous aviez envie de raconter. Merci beaucoup
Mosimann told the contestant.
Production Shifts and Future Lineup Questions
The transition in leadership follows Michael Goldman’s departure. Mathieu Vergne revealed that questions about returning arose annually for the former director. The premiere also sparked public discussion regarding other prominent figures from past seasons, including Lucie Bernardoni and whether international star Céline Dion might appear on a future prime.
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