Yann-Alrick Mortreuil, a familiar face to French television audiences as a professional dancer on Danse avec les stars (Dancing with the Stars), has recently opened up about a deeply personal and harrowing experience: a suicide attempt during his youth. The revelation, made during an appearance on the France 2 program Bel et bien matin on Saturday, February 28, 2026, underscores the often-hidden struggles faced by public figures and the enduring impact of bullying. Mortreuil’s willingness to share his story comes as he continues to captivate viewers alongside his partner, Angélique Angarni-Filopon, on the popular TF1 show, highlighting a contrast between his current success and a painful past.
The dancer’s vulnerability resonated with many, prompting a wider conversation about mental health and the importance of seeking help. Mortreuil, who also publicly discusses his hearing impairment and advocates for greater accessibility to hearing aids, is using his platform to address tough topics and encourage open dialogue. His story serves as a powerful reminder that even those who appear confident and successful can be battling internal demons. The timing of his disclosure, during a period of increased media attention thanks to Danse avec les stars, allows him to reach a broader audience with his message of hope and resilience.
A Dark Period Revealed
During his interview on Bel et bien matin, Mortreuil recounted a period of intense suffering stemming from bullying. He described a moment of desperation where he contemplated ending his life, stating, “J’ai tenté de mettre fin à mes jours. J’ai pris un couteau, je suis allé m’enfermer dans un placard. J’attendais juste d’avoir le courage en moi pour y aller parce que c’était devenu trop cette fois-là.” (I tried to end my life. I took a knife, I went and locked myself in a closet. I was just waiting to have the courage to do it because it had become too much this time.) The emotional weight of his words underscored the severity of the pain he endured. He explained that dance ultimately provided an outlet for his anguish, allowing him to channel his “noirceur” (darkness) into physical expression. Telestar reported on the interview, detailing the emotional impact of his confession.
Mortreuil’s experience is not isolated. He previously spoke to Voici magazine in July 2025, acknowledging the prevalence of bullying in schools today. He expressed his commitment to fighting against harassment, stating, “Malheureusement il y a encore aujourd’hui du harcèlement dans les établissements scolaires. Moi, je me bats contre ça parce que c’est allé très, très loin me concernant.” (Unfortunately, there is still bullying in schools today. I fight against it because it went very, very far for me.) He shared that the bullying was so severe it forced him to leave his studies prematurely. This early trauma fueled his determination to raise awareness and support those affected by similar experiences.
Advocacy and Awareness
Today, Mortreuil actively works to transform his personal struggles into positive action. He dedicates his time to visiting schools and sharing his story with students, aiming to prevent future instances of bullying and promote inclusivity. He focuses on raising awareness about disability as well, using his own experiences to foster understanding and empathy. This commitment to advocacy demonstrates a profound shift from a place of personal pain to one of proactive engagement and social responsibility.
Mortreuil’s advocacy work extends beyond simply sharing his story. He actively participates in sensitization programs, offering a firsthand account of the devastating effects of bullying and the importance of creating a supportive environment for all students. His efforts align with broader national initiatives aimed at combating school harassment and promoting mental well-being among young people. France has implemented various programs to address bullying, including educational campaigns and stricter disciplinary measures for perpetrators. Public highlighted his dedication to this cause.
The Power of Dance
For Mortreuil, dance became more than just a profession; it became a lifeline. He described how the physical exertion and creative expression of dance allowed him to release pent-up emotions and find a sense of purpose. “Toute la journée j’accumulais cette noirceur et quand j’allais en salle de répétition, je dansais, je transpirais, ça sortait de moi.” (All day long I accumulated this darkness and when I went to the rehearsal room, I danced, I sweated, it came out of me.) This transformative power of dance underscores its potential as a therapeutic outlet for individuals struggling with mental health challenges.
Mortreuil’s journey with Danse avec les stars has also provided a platform to discuss his hearing impairment, a challenge he has faced since childhood. He has spoken openly about the benefits of wearing hearing aids and his desire to normalize their use, encouraging others to seek help and embrace assistive technologies. This advocacy is particularly significant given the stigma often associated with hearing loss and the importance of early intervention. The French government offers financial assistance for hearing aids, making them more accessible to those in need.
Danse avec les stars and Beyond
Yann-Alrick Mortreuil’s participation in Danse avec les stars, now in its 2026 season, has brought him increased visibility and a wider audience. TF1’s official website features a dedicated dossier on the dancer, showcasing his performances and behind-the-scenes footage. He has partnered with Angélique Angarni-Filopon, Miss France 2025, and the pair have consistently delivered captivating performances throughout the competition. The show’s popularity provides a valuable platform for Mortreuil to share his story and connect with viewers on a deeper level.
Despite the show’s occasional scheduling disruptions – including a postponed prime time broadcast on February 27, 2026, due to the broadcast of the Les Enfoirés concert – Danse avec les stars remains a significant cultural event in France. The program’s ability to attract a large audience and generate media attention makes it an ideal vehicle for raising awareness about important social issues, such as mental health and disability awareness. The show’s producers have demonstrated a commitment to inclusivity and diversity, providing a platform for individuals from various backgrounds to share their stories.
Mortreuil’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of seeking help when facing adversity. His willingness to speak openly about his struggles serves as an inspiration to others and underscores the need for greater awareness and support for mental health initiatives. His advocacy work, combined with his success on Danse avec les stars, positions him as a powerful voice for change and a role model for young people across France.
The next scheduled broadcast of Danse avec les stars is on March 6, 2026, where viewers will see which couples will continue in the competition. Mortreuil’s journey, both on and off the dance floor, continues to inspire. We encourage readers to share this story and engage in conversations about mental health and the importance of supporting those in need. Your thoughts and experiences are valuable – please share them in the comments below.