The 21st century sees the TF1 group innovating more than ever in response to fragmentation: in viewing devices, and in viewer behaviour and expectations. New formats, new faces, new talents – and new programmes too, with the rise of digital terrestrial television. What emerges is a bold media player – but one with a growing sense of its responsibility and strongly committed to upholding its values, both internally and with the viewing public.
In February, TF1 and Groupe AB continue this strategy, acquiring TMC from the Pathé group. In March, the TF1 group launches Ushuaïa TV, a new channel with Nicolas Hulot as flagship presenter. It also launches a video on demand site (MYTF1 VOD) in response to new patterns of viewer behaviour.
TF1 embarks on a broadcasting diversification strategy. The Group ups its stake in TV Breizh to 71.1% in April, and completes the acquisition of 100% of the capital of the Histoire channel at the end of June.
In January, TF1 acquires 50% of Série Club. Later in the year, TF1 launches Koh Lanta and also Star Academy, hosted by Nikos Aliagas. The final of Season 1 of Star Academy, won by the singer Jenifer, attracts more than 11.8 million viewers. This is also the year of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, which are covered live on LCI. TF1 followed up the story by despatching Gilles Bouleau to London and Jean-Pierre Pernaut to New York.
In May, TF1 shares join the CAC 40 index. On screen, TF1 launches two new game shows: Qui veut gagner des millions ? (the French version of Who Wants to be a Millionaire?), hosted by Jean-Pierre Foucault, and Attention à la marche, hosted by Jean-Luc Reichmann. TF1 also launches Sept à Huit, a new current affairs show featuring Thomas Hugues and Laurence Ferrari as the first presenters. Another craze hits France with the arrival of Pokemon on the Group’s channels.