Ginette Reno, the celebrated Quebecois singer, will mark her 80th birthday on April 28, 2026. The milestone occasion was honored with a special televised tribute on the popular variety display En direct de l’univers, which aired on April 25, 2026, at 7 p.m. ET. The episode featured heartfelt performances and surprise appearances by notable figures from music, television, and public life, all gathered to celebrate Reno’s enduring legacy in Canadian entertainment.
Host France Beaudoin welcomed Reno to the stage, where the singer reflected on reaching this significant age with characteristic candor. When asked what it felt like to turn 80, Reno replied, “Ça me fait chier,” a candid remark that drew both laughter and applause from the audience and panelists. The moment underscored her long-standing reputation for authenticity and emotional openness, qualities that have endeared her to generations of fans across Quebec and beyond.
The April 25 broadcast was described as a “tout un spectacle” — a full-scale celebration — by Radio-Canada, highlighting the elaborate production and star-studded lineup. Among the guests were singer Michel Fugain, former Quebec premier François Legault, international artist Josh Groban, and fellow Quebecois icons France Castel, Shirley Théroux, and Pierre Lapointe. A particularly memorable moment came when comedian Guy Jodoin emerged from a giant birthday cake during the show, adding a touch of theatrical flair to the proceedings.
Céline Dion, though not present in person, contributed a pre-recorded message for Reno, further emphasizing the high regard in which the singer is held within the francophone music community. The tribute also included appearances by Reno’s family members, including her daughters Natacha Watier and Geneviève Schmidt, and her son Pascalin Raynault, reinforcing the personal and familial warmth that permeated the evening.
The episode of En direct de l’univers dedicated to Ginette Reno was made available for online viewing shortly after its initial broadcast, allowing audiences across Canada and internationally to revisit the celebration. The program’s official page on Radio-Canada’s website noted that the full 45-minute segment remained accessible for streaming, preserving the event as a lasting tribute to one of Quebec’s most beloved cultural figures.
Reno’s career spans over six decades, beginning in the 1960s, and includes numerous albums, live performances, and accolades that have solidified her status as a cornerstone of Quebecois music. Her powerful contralto voice and emotive delivery have made her a staple at major events and festivals, and her influence continues to resonate with contemporary artists who cite her as an inspiration.
As Reno enters her ninth decade, the En direct de l’univers tribute stands as a testament to her lasting impact on Canadian culture. The combination of personal reflections, musical tributes, and public affirmations highlighted not only her artistic achievements but also the deep affection she inspires among peers and audiences alike.
For those wishing to view the full tribute episode, the official recording remains available through Radio-Canada’s digital platform. Fans and followers of Ginette Reno can access the broadcast to experience the celebration of her 80th birthday in its entirety.
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