Last week, a series of casting calls were held in Reyers to find a journalist who would co-present the show “We are not pigeons” alongside Fanny Jandrain, former partner of Thibaut Roland, starting next school year. One of RTBF’s selection criteria for the future presenter was that they must hold a press card, proving they are a journalist rather than just a presenter.
Thibaut Roland leaves RTBF and joins RTL Belgium
Several candidates, both internal and external to RTBF, were considered. However, according to our information, the public service is said to have chosen Simon François, former presenter of the “RTL News” weekend edition.
The journalist, recipient of the Marie-Rose Armesto scholarship, joined the RTL-TVI editorial team in 2012. He produced several reports and live segments for the “RTL News” before becoming the face of the news program. In early 2023, the journalist left the private channel’s news show for a specific reason. “It was my choice, we had been discussing it with the editorial staff for over a year. My 3-year-old daughter, Raphaëlle, told me one day that I work too much! That’s when I realized it was time to try a different rhythm. I had been devoting my weekends to journalism for twelve years,” he explained in the columns of “Cinema TV Review.”
A new chapter is therefore opening for the journalist, who recently signed his contract with RTBF. Starting next school year, he will be part of the large “Pigeons” family and, as a result, a familiar face to viewers of the competing channel.
Simon François talks regarding his departure from RTL news ©Twitter
Simon François Joins RTBF’s “We Are Not Pigeons”
A new era is dawning for Simon François, the former presenter of RTL News weekend. After a successful run at RTL-TVI, François has decided to embark on a new chapter at the RTBF, joining the esteemed “We Are Not Pigeons” program alongside Fanny Jandrain.
A Shift in Pace
François’s departure from RTL News was a deliberate choice motivated by a desire to prioritize family time. As he explained in an interview with Cinema TV Review, his three-year-old daughter Raphaëlle’s observation that he worked too much prompted him to re-evaluate his priorities and seek a more balanced lifestyle.
This shift towards a different rhythm led François to step away from the demanding schedule of presenting the weekend news, a role he had occupied for twelve years. His dedication to his craft, however, remained unwavering, and he sought a new position that offered a more sustainable work-life balance.
From RTL News to “We Are Not Pigeons”
Following his departure from RTL News, François’s talent and experience caught the attention of RTBF, leading to a new opportunity as a co-presenter on “We Are Not Pigeons.” This move marks a significant transition for the seasoned journalist, who is now venturing into the world of public service broadcasting – a departure from his previous role with the private channel.
The Importance of Journalism
One of the key criteria for selection in the casting process for the new co-presenter of “We Are Not Pigeons” was the candidate’s possession of a press card, as RTBF sought a true journalist, not merely a presenter. This emphasis on journalistic integrity highlights the program’s commitment to providing insightful and informed commentary.
The “We Are Not Pigeons” Family
François’s arrival at “We Are Not Pigeons” marks a new chapter for the show. He joins Fanny Jandrain, the former partner of Thibaut Roland, in the presentation role.
Jandrain, known for her sharp wit and engaging commentary, is a well-established figure in the RTBF landscape, and her partnership with François promises to deliver a dynamic and engaging presentation style.
A New Chapter for Simon François
Simon François’s journey from RTL News to “We Are Not Pigeons” is a testament to his adaptability and dedication to his craft. The decision to prioritize family time while remaining engaged in journalism demonstrates his commitment to a balanced life. His new role at RTBF promises an exciting new chapter in his career, and his contributions to the program are sure to be insightful and entertaining.
François’s Background
A recipient of the Marie-Rose Armesto scholarship, François joined the RTL-TVI editorial team in 2012. He quickly rose through the ranks, producing numerous reports and duplexes for RTL News. His talent and ability led him to become the new face of the news program, a position he held with distinction until his departure in early 2023.
The Future of “We Are Not Pigeons”
With the arrival of Simon François, “We Are Not Pigeons” is poised for a new era of insightful commentary and dynamic presentation. François’s journalistic experience and passion for his craft, coupled with Fanny Jandrain’s expertise and charisma, promise to deliver a compelling viewing experience for audiences across Belgium.
