Star Academy (French TV series)
Star Academy is a French reality television talent show that ran for eight seasons between 2001 and 2008, and was revived in 2022. It is produced by Endemol France and broadcast on TF1 (seasons 1-8) and TF1 (season 9 onwards). The show is a singing competition that follows a group of aspiring singers (referred to as "academicians") who live together in an academy for several weeks, receiving vocal training, dance lessons, and performance coaching.
Each week, the academicians perform in a prime-time show, judged by a panel of professional musicians and industry experts. Viewers also have the opportunity to vote for their favorite contestants. The academicians who receive the fewest votes are nominated for elimination, and one or more of them are eliminated from the competition each week.
The winner of Star Academy receives a recording contract with a major record label and a significant cash prize. The show has launched the careers of several successful French singers, including Jenifer Bartoli, Nolwenn Leroy, and Grégory Lemarchal.
Star Academy is known for its high production values, its focus on developing the talent of its contestants, and its emotional storylines. It has been a major success in France and has spawned numerous international adaptations. The revival of the show in 2022 proved to be popular, reaffirming the franchise's appeal. The show combines elements of reality television with a talent competition, generating both entertainment and opportunities for aspiring performers.