The show starts again for a new season this Saturday, at 9:10 p.m., on TF1. Maureen, who was born and raised in Montpellier, is part of the adventure.
Even though you are part of it, you are presented as the Montpellier in the new season of Star Academy. What is your background?
I am 23 years old. I was born in Montpellier, I went to college at Frédéric-Bazille, in Castelnau, and at the Pompidou high school, also in Castelnau. In Montpellier, I took singing lessons for two years when I was 13-14 years old. Then, I went to study in Lyon, to be a press officer in luxury and fashion. And I have just moved to Paris.
What does music mean to you?
It’s my greatest passion. Even though I don’t play an instrument, I’ve always had it in me. At family reunions, we do karaoke, and when I was very little, my parents already had to fight to take the microphone away from me. When I was 13-14, I also took singing lessons for two years.
How did you end up in Star Academy?
I applied by chance at the end of last season. I wanted to do it but I didn’t get started. My boyfriend helped me get through it. I had completely forgotten that I had applied but I was called to take the casting and I went through the stages.
What are your ambitions for this show?
I go there to learn and to enjoy, not specifically to win. Star Academy is something I’ve always wanted to do and if I can make a living from music, of course I will. I’m crossing my fingers.
What is your style of music?
I am a very young artist. Today, I listen to everything, from American pop to French pop and old French songs. In fact, I like it when there are things to convey. But I want to explore a lot of themes.
Do you want to sing with particular artists?
When I thought about that, I had lots of ideas: Lara Fabian and lots of others, that would be great. But looking back, I tell myself: the artist doesn’t matter. I have so much to take in and I’m so happy to do it…
How are you feeling on the eve of the first show?
This will be my first real scene. I’ve never had such a large audience. There, there will be 1,500 people in the studio. I never thought I would sing in front of so many people.
1,500 spectators in the studio… but many more in front of the TV!
I don’t think about it! And I don’t have to think about it (laughs). I have to think mostly about positive things and don’t forget to have fun.
Have you ever sung in front of an audience?
When I was 16, I sang in the summer huts in La Grande-Motte but the people weren’t very attentive, they were eating or having a drink. There, people will be focused on me.
Have you had other experiences since?
I had a period where I lost self-confidence. Young people are hard on each other. I suffered harassment. I forgot the music a little, it was no longer a moment of pleasure for me.
This Saturday, you will be able to live one of your dreams. What do you expect from this show?
I tell myself that I must not stress, that I must enjoy. And I want to go as far as possible in the adventure.
