The 40th Gémeaux Awards: A Reflection on Quebec’s Television Landscape
The recent 40th Gémeaux Awards gala, celebrating the best in Quebec television, was a night of both celebration and subtle critique. It offered a snapshot of the industry’s current state, revealing both its triumphs and its challenges. Let’s delve into the key takeaways from this significant event.
A Producer’s Protest and Its Ripple Effects
Notably,the absence of submissions from Fabienne Larouche‘s prolific production company loomed large. Her decision to boycott the awards, stemming from past disagreements with the Academy, sadly impacted the recognition deserved by the numerous talented actors and crew members who work on her shows. Perhaps a more decisive approach from the Academy early on, rather than attempting extensive accommodation, could have averted this situation. It’s a reminder that sometimes, a firm stance is necessary, even when dealing with influential figures.
Reviving the Past to Boost Present Engagement
In an effort to attract viewers, Radio-Canada and the Academy opted to reinstate several older award categories, some dating back to the Radiomonde gala era. This move, while intended to broaden appeal, felt somewhat nostalgic. Geneviève Everell, known for her expertise in sushi and poke bowls and gaining prominence through the documentary Maman est malade, found herself honored alongside veteran Janette Bertrand as ”Personality of the Year.”
Antoine Bertrand’s win as “Personality of 2025” wasn’t surprising,given the impact of his patriotic commentary on June 24th. These choices sparked conversation about the criteria for these awards and whether they truly reflect the year’s moast significant contributions.
The Power of the audience Vote – and Potential Oversights
A substantial portion – one-third – of the Gémeaux awards were determined by public vote.This demonstrates a commitment to audience engagement, but also led to some curious results. En direct de l’univers secured both “Coup de Coeur” of the year and “Coup de Coeur” of the last 40 years.
you might wonder if this reflects a genuine gratitude or a shorter collective memory. Considering the legacy of iconic series like Les filles de Caleb,Lance et compte,La petite vie,Un gars,une fille,District 31,and empathie,it’s fair to question whether France Beaudoin’s show,while enjoyable,truly holds the same weight in Quebec television history.
Remembering Those We’ve Lost
unfortunately, the Academy continues to struggle with adequately honoring its departed artists and craftspeople. While René Homier-Roy received a tribute due to his recent passing, other significant figures like Stéphane Venne, Denise Boucher, Jacques Salvail, Serge Fiori, and Julien poulin were overlooked.
This is a critical area for improvement. Acknowledging those who have shaped the industry is not merely a formality; it’s a deeply moving and essential part of the gala. It’s a moment to reflect on their contributions and celebrate their legacies.
A Triumphant gala,But a Missed Prospect
The 40th gala itself was a well-attended event at a packed Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier. Radio-Canada demonstrated a welcome level of support, actively participating in the celebration. However, a notable oversight occurred with the exclusion of Patrice Lachance, who has dedicated 28 years to leading the Academy.
Her absence felt particularly jarring, considering her instrumental role in ensuring the Gémeaux Awards’ continued existence. It’s a reminder that recognizing the individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes is just as important as celebrating those in the spotlight.
Ultimately, the 40th Gémeaux Awards provided a valuable platform for recognizing talent and sparking conversation about the future of Quebec television. It’s a landscape constantly evolving, and these awards serve as a crucial benchmark for its progress.
