Rebecca Makonnen and ICI Première Apologize to Author Elizabeth Lemay After Radio Segment Criticism

Elizabeth Lemay, a celebrated author, recently became a focal point of controversy following her appearance on ICI Première’s radio segment “C’est Chaud.” In her remarks, Lemay discussed the issue of male loneliness, stating it reflected a positive shift in women’s liberation. However, her comments ignited intense backlash on social media, leading to a wave of criticism and hostility directed at her.

Rebecca Makonnen’s Apology

In response to the public outcry, Rebecca Makonnen, the host of the show, issued a heartfelt apology on her social media platforms. She expressed her distress over the “onslaught of hate” aimed at Lemay, emphasizing that she had fully engaged with the comments directed toward her guest.

Markonnen stated, “I have read everything.” She acknowledged that a segment of the show had been posted online without her knowledge, which she believes contributed to the fallout. “This decision was made without me,” she noted, signaling her concerns about potential repercussions.

Conversations and Responsibility

Following the incident, Makonnen reached out to the show’s management to discuss the atmosphere created by their content decisions. “We could have avoided this,” she remarked, highlighting the need for a thoughtful approach to the subject matter.

She later connected with Lemay, noting, “The damage is done. I feel helpless and take my share of responsibility.” Makonnen publicly apologized to Lemay, expressing her genuine regret.

Public Reaction to Lemay’s Comments

Since the initial airing and subsequent removal of the segment from social media, Lemay has experienced both support and vitriol online. The segment’s description on Radio-Canada OHdio indicated that Lemay aimed to highlight how women’s increasing independence from economic reliance on marriage prompts a shift in what they expect from men.

ICI Première’s Statement

In light of the situation, ICI Première released a statement clarifying that the publication of the controversial excerpt was not a reflection of a disavowal of Lemay’s work. They affirmed the importance of viewing her commentary within the full context of the broadcast, suggesting that snippets can misrepresent the intended message.

• Elizabeth Lemay won the Janette-Bertrand Literary Prize for her book “L’été de la colère” in November 2025.
• Through their social media, ICI Première expressed regret over how the excerpt was shared.
• The full version of Lemay’s commentary remains available on official platforms.

The incident has prompted widespread debate among listeners, with opinions divided on both ICI Première’s decision to remove the segment and Lemay’s controversial statements. Some criticized the action as misguided, while others pointed to the lack of depth in Lemay’s remarks as problematic.