Carole Gaessler Takes the Helm of 'Mon côté Sud' on France 3
The new national cultural magazine showcases the richness of southern France through local insights.
Carole Gaessler has assumed the role of presenter for the cultural magazine 'Mon côté Sud' on France 3, marking a significant transition for the program as it now garners national attention.
The show is scheduled to air every Saturday at 12:55 PM, building on Gaessler's previous experiences with the channel, including her contributions to the news and the program 'Des racines et des ailes.'
In the inaugural episode, Gaessler explored the Alpilles region alongside actress Charlotte de Turckheim, who provided a personal tour of her village in Eygalières.
The coming weeks will see Gaessler visit Carry-le-Rouet, known as the 'pearl of the Côte Bleue' west of Marseille, accompanied by Jean-Pierre Foucault.
This installment will feature local highlights, such as vintage cars and the annual Oursinades festival.
Gaessler expressed enthusiasm over her new role, having previously appeared on the show as a guest.
"I had participated in the earlier format of 'Mon côté Sud' to discuss my roots in Vaucluse.
So, when I was offered the chance to become the face of the show, I accepted immediately," she stated during a press presentation in Marseille earlier this year.
The show aims to place human stories at the center of cultural discovery, allowing viewers to connect with regions through the lives of local personalities.
Gaessler elaborated on the program's concept, stating, "The guest opens personal doors that are often invisible to the casual visitor, serving as a bridge for the viewers.
We discover a village, town, or region from a unique perspective, through lesser-known places and fascinating individuals, away from typical tourist brochures."
The magazine will spotlight various locations across Southern France, including the South East, South West, and Corsica, while maintaining a focus on personal narratives.
The innovative aspect of 'Mon côté Sud' lies in its origins, developed in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region before expanding to a national platform.
Philippe Martinetti, deputy director of antennas and programs at France 3, noted the significance of this expansion, stating, "This idea, nurtured and managed regionally, now has a national reach.
It is a rare occurrence for magazines to make this transition, as special broadcasts typically lead to such an expansion."
Prior to its national launch, 'Mon côté Sud' had been produced for two years by France 3 Provence Alpes in collaboration with a local independent production company based in the Bouches-du-Rhône.
Martinetti emphasized the channel's commitment to enhancing regional content, a direction shared by Delphine Ernotte-Cunci, president of France Télévisions, who advocates for making France 3 a regional network of channels rather than just a national channel with localized segments.