Évelyne Leclercq, a prominent television host in France, passed away at the age of 74 on a Tuesday. She died in Grasse, Alpes-Maritimes, surrounded by her family after a long illness. Her daughter, Céline Olive, shared that Leclercq faced her health challenges with remarkable courage, sustained by her family’s love.
Career Highlights of Évelyne Leclercq
Leclercq had a significant television career that spanned more than two decades, from 1975 to 1997. She began her journey as a speaker on a regional channel in Nice. Shortly after, she joined TF1, marking the beginning of her illustrious career on one of France’s leading networks.
Iconic Show: Tournez Manège!
In the 1980s, Leclercq became a household name as the co-host of “Tournez Manège!” This popular matchmaking game show, where singles behind a partition answered questions from potential partners, solidified her status in French entertainment. The show aired from September 1985 to July 1993 and featured notable figures like Fabienne Égal, Simone Garnier, and Charly Oleg.
Other Contributions
- Co-hosted “Intervilles” in the early 1990s with Guy Lux and Simone Garnier.
- Participated in “Les Grosses Têtes” on RTL, engaging audiences with her wit.
- Attempted to revive “Le Schmilblick” with Georges Beller in the late 1990s on Nostalgie.
- Starred in the comedy play “Le Canard à l’orange” numerous times.
Health Battle and Legacy
In 2019, Leclercq publicly revealed her battle with lymphatic cancer. Last September, she paid tribute to her friend Charly Oleg, who passed away at 94. She remarked, “I never saw him age,” reflecting the strong bond they shared.
TF1 commemorated her contribution, highlighting that Leclercq left an indelible mark on the network and the hearts of many French viewers. Her humor, warmth, and connection with the audience made her one of the most beloved personalities in French television history.
