JEAN-PIERRE PERNAUT WILL HAND OVER THE REINS OF THE LUNCHTIME NEWS AT THE END OF 2020

Presenter since 22 February 1988 of Europe’s most-watched lunchtime news programme, Jean-Pierre Pernaut has decided – in consultation with Thierry Thuillier (Head of News) and Gilles Pélisson (Chairman & CEO of the TF1 group) – to hand over the reins and explore new opportunities within the news team.

As someone who has always had strong empathy with the concerns of his fellow-citizens, Jean-Pierre Pernaut will continue to direct and host the special local-interest strands he devised, such as Les plus beaux marchés and SOS Villages. He will also continue to be involved in special broadcasts on TF1, such as coverage of the Bastille Day parades.

Jean-Pierre Pernaut’s new projects include:
- extended news reports for TF1;
- presenting a new regular show on LCI; and
- developing a digital content strand.
He will focus on the topics that mean most to him: the French regions, heritage and localism.

Jean-Pierre Pernaut’s talent and passion have made him part of the fabric of French life for the last 33 years. This year he was again named as France’s favourite TV personality, reflecting his unique bond with viewers. An innovative and pioneering broadcaster, back in the late 1980s he was the first to set up a national network of regional correspondents, creating a spirit of localism that underpins the success of his news slot. Since the start of 2020, the TF1 lunchtime news has averaged over 5 million viewers, or a 41% audience share.
 

Thierry Thuillier says: “Jean-Pierre Pernaut shaped the TF1 lunchtime news in his own image, and made it an unrivalled success. He has once again set an example by stepping down from his role anchoring the news just when he is at the peak of his popularity. I am delighted that we will continue to work together, and that the TF1 news operation can still rely on Jean-Pierre’s talent and energy.”
 

Gilles Pélisson says: “We are very pleased that Jean-Pierre Pernaut has decided to write a new page in the history of the TF1 group from next January, and that he will continue to share his passion for French heritage and the regions with the viewing public. We are looking forward to seeing our new projects become a reality”.