The television incident the whole country is talking about
Two kittens burst into a live news broadcast. The whole country melted.
An ordinary evening news broadcast on a French channel turned into an online phenomenon. The presenter was discussing the coming weekend and pointing to an area of high pressure when two small fluffy figures suddenly appeared behind him. One kitten was smoky grey and the other bright ginger; they sprang from behind the set and began curiously exploring the studio, paying no attention to the cameras or astonished operators.
At first, the presenter tried to remain serious and continue the forecast, but the kittens quickly disrupted his plans. The grey one climbed onto the control desk and began pressing the buttons with interest, while the ginger one chased the pointer the presenter was absent-mindedly twirling between his fingers. Laughter broke out in the studio and the programme turned into an improvised show starring the whiskered visitors. The director chose not to cut the broadcast, and that decision proved decisive.
The moment that went viral
Viewers reacted immediately on social media: comments poured in and the hashtag #chatonsendirect quickly gained traction. Finally defeated by his furry colleagues, the presenter picked one up and stroked it while a studio employee rushed in for the other. Sensing the affection around them, the kittens purred so loudly that the sound was clearly audible through the microphones.
The rest of this investigation reveals confidential information that the newsroom corroborated with sources close to the matter. Our journalists obtained previously unseen documents that cast new light on the exact circumstances and the responsibilities at every level of the decision-making chain. Testimony, often given anonymously, presents a far more complex picture than the one made public so far.
Subscriber-only content
The rest of this article is reserved for subscribers. Discover all our exclusive content from €5 per month.
No commitment. Cancel at any time.
Related reading
SNCF: the huge failure that paralysed half the country
Stranded passengers, mounting anger and management in turmoil.
PremiumMétéo France warns of a rare phenomenon expected next week
Storms, falling temperatures and snow: be prepared.
French village named Europe's most beautiful sees tourism surge
A report from the scene, between wonder and overcrowding.
PremiumPublic safety: new figures shake up the national debate
Our town-by-town investigation reveals two sides of France.