It’s a real pleasure to have you here
The show Zénith is a popular, entertaining gathering for Quebec audiences. Since the start of its third season, the beloved concept has continued to deliver dazzling musical performances and memorable moments. Hosted with energy by Véronique Cloutier, the program relies on a blend of dynamism, iconic songs, eye-catching sets, and original staging. Each week, artists from different generations take the stage to fight for their spot and charm the audience, creating a competition that’s as festive as it is inclusive.
In the most recent episode of Zénith, it was the second show of the second round. On the Baby Boomer generation side, the competition pitted two artists well known to the public: Michèle Richard and Francesca Gagnon, both hoping to secure a passage to the next round.
Who would prevail?
After standout performances, notably in duets — Michèle alongside Neev, and Francesca accompanied by FabiolaNyrva Aladin — the evening culminated with the traditional generational face-off. By the end of the night, Francesca narrowly earned the chance to continue the journey, while the iconic Michèle Richard had to bid farewell.
Praises for the diva!
She who has often made headlines in magazines delivered a solo performance in her own distinctive style of the La Chicane tune Make Peace with Love.
Following this performance, the host of Zénith, Véronique Cloutier, took a moment to shower her with praise, saying she was deeply grateful to welcome Michèle Richard onto the show’s set.
The moment came after Z’s contestant Éléonore Lagacé mentioned that Michèle had paved the way for many women in the arts. Words of gratitude that sparked a reaction from the studio audience.
Véronique then added her own touch, taking the opportunity to underscore the importance of the diva’s presence.
“Michèle is among the people who helped build showbiz as we know it today. And that’s why, Michèle, I keep telling you that it’s no small thing for us to have you here, you understand. And it’s a remarkable act of humility to call you out here and to have you learn a song you’d never heard before,” stated Véronique Cloutier.
“My parents were here before me,” Michèle Richard replied with humility.
“Yes, but you’ve still come a long way,” added the host.
A moment filled with respect for this great figure in Québec’s chanson. 🌟
To catch all the upcoming installments of Zénith, tune in on Thursdays at 8 p.m. on Radio-Canada.
