On-Air Insult Sparks Outrage: Journalist with Visual Impairment Targeted in Live Broadcast

A French television journalist, Céline Collonge, was recently subjected to a deeply offensive remark during a live broadcast of the show "Ça peut vous arriver." The incident occurred when a listener, identified only as Joseph, a garagiste involved in a prior dispute on the show, referred to her using an ableist slur referencing her visual impairment. The host, Julien Courbet, responded swiftly, demanding an apology from the caller. "Vous plaisantez monsieur? Vous vous rendez compte de ce que vous êtes en train de dire?", Courbet stated, expressing outrage at the offensive comment. However, Joseph hung up before providing an apology. Collonge, visibly upset, maintained her composure. The incident has sparked widespread discussion about the treatment of disabled people and the prevalence of online abuse. Following the incident, Collonge took to social media to express her gratitude for the outpouring of support she received. This incident underscores the ongoing need for greater sensitivity and respect in public discourse.