And as if this lackluster New Year’s Eve was not enough, the academicians did not have the luxury of breathing space. The competition took a new turn this week, with the semi-finals in sight. After several evaluations eliminating a candidate at each stage, the faculty decided, and it was Ebony who won first place. A decision with no real surprise as she ticks all the boxes: talented, appreciated by the teachers and – let’s be honest – she clearly seems to be the darling of the production. His journey? Flawless. Not once submitted to public votes. Meanwhile, Marine, Franck, Ulysse and Charles will have to rely on the support of viewers this Saturday evening to stay in the competition.
But where it gets stuck – once again – is the general atmosphere. Still no international stars to increase the interest of the prime. Certainly, the arrival of Gaëtan Roussel (singer of Louise Attaque) and that of MC Solaar are to be welcomed, but we still remain unsatisfied. And what about the third (yes, third!) appearance of Héléna Bailly, last season’s semi-finalist? We appreciate the artist, obviously, but Internet users are scolding, and we understand them. Not against the Belgian artist – whose fans are delighted to see her perform her new song “Mauvais Garçon” – but against the production, which seems to be pulling the old promotion to the limit to compensate for a blatant lack of budget and fresh ideas. It’s a safe bet that we’ll soon see Pierre Garnier on set as well!
So, here we are: a season that is sorely lacking in spark, a production that recycles at all costs, and a competition that is struggling to find its breath. Yes, we continue to follow – out of attachment to candidates who are worth it – but perhaps the Star Academy remembers that to retain your audience, you also have to know how to surprise. And for now, the only surprise is knowing what outfit Marlène will wear to the next bonus!
