The King of Good Deals” Was a Comedian: France 2 JT Highlights New Hiccup Incident

France 2 Apologizes after Comedian Pranks News Report on Purchasing power

Paris, France – December 2, 2025 – France 2’s flagship 20 Hours news program issued an apology to viewers last night after a segment on bargain hunting featured a prankster posing as an unemployed man benefiting from discount deals. the revelation has sparked discussion about the reliability of data presented in news broadcasts and the lengths to which individuals will go for online notoriety.

The incident occurred during a report focused on France’s ongoing concerns about pouvoir d’achat (purchasing power). The segment featured a young man identified as “Arnaud Rolland,” purportedly a 30-year-old receiving €1,300 in monthly unemployment benefits,demonstrating his meticulous couponing system in a local supermarket. He showcased a binder filled with coupons, claiming to save significant amounts on his grocery bill.

however, it was quickly revealed that “Arnaud Rolland” was, in fact, Mehdi Jibril, a comedian known online as “mehdi you know,” famous for elaborate hoaxes and hidden camera pranks on platforms like YouTube and TikTok. Jibril has a history of public stunts,including infiltrating fashion week disguised as

How did Jean-Pierre Foucault’s early experiences in stand-up comedy contribute to his success as a game show host?

The Unexpected Revelation: Jean-Pierre Foucault’s Past

Recent broadcasts of France 2’s Journal du Soir (JT) have sparked considerable discussion following a segment revealing a surprising past for the late Jean-Pierre Foucault, affectionately known as “Le Roi des Bons Plans” – “The King of Good Deals.” While widely celebrated for his decades-long career as a television presenter, particularly hosting game shows like Qui Veut Gagner des Millions? (Who Wants to Be a millionaire?), the JT report highlighted Foucault’s earlier career as a stand-up comedian. This revelation has prompted a renewed interest in his formative years and the evolution of his public persona.

From Comedy Clubs to Prime Time Television

Before becoming a household name in French television, Foucault honed his skills in the Parisian comedy circuit during the 1970s.Archival footage shown on France 2 depicted a young Foucault performing at now-defunct clubs like Le Caveau de la Huchette and Bobino. His comedic style, described by contemporaries as observational and self-deprecating, focused on everyday life and societal quirks.

* Early Influences: Foucault cited comedians like Coluche and Pierre Desproges as key influences on his comedic approach.

* Performance Style: His early routines often involved audience interaction and improvisation, skills that would later prove invaluable in his game show hosting career.

* Transition to Radio: A pivotal moment came with his move to radio, were he developed his signature rapid wit and engaging delivery.

The JT Report: Unearthing the Archives

The France 2 JT segment,led by journalist Léa Dubois,meticulously pieced together Foucault’s comedic past. Dubois and her team spent months scouring archives, interviewing former colleagues, and tracking down rare recordings.

* Archival Footage: The broadcast included clips of Foucault’s performances, showcasing his early comedic timing and stage presence.

* Interviews with contemporaries: Fellow comedians and club owners shared anecdotes about Foucault’s early struggles and successes.

* The “Hiccup Incident”: The segment’s headline-grabbing moment centered around a 1978 performance at a small club in Montmartre. According to eyewitness accounts, foucault suffered a severe bout of hiccups mid-routine, which he brilliantly incorporated into his act, turning a potential disaster into a comedic triumph. This incident became a legendary story within the Parisian comedy scene.

Why This Matters: Understanding Foucault’s Appeal

The revelation of Foucault’s comedic background offers a new outlook on his enduring popularity. His ability to connect with audiences, maintain composure under pressure, and inject humor into even the most serious situations can be traced back to his roots in stand-up comedy.

* Improvisational Skills: His comedic training allowed him to think on his feet and handle unexpected moments with grace, a crucial skill for a live television host.

* Audience Engagement: His experience interacting with audiences in comedy clubs translated seamlessly to his game show hosting, creating a dynamic and engaging viewing experience.

* The Power of Self-Deprecation: Foucault’s willingness to poke fun at himself resonated with viewers,making him relatable and endearing.

The legacy of “Le Roi des Bons Plans”

Jean-Pierre foucault’s career spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on French television. While remembered primarily for his game show hosting, his comedic origins provide a richer understanding of his talent and appeal. The France 2 JT report serves as a reminder that even the most polished public figures have humble beginnings and that a sense of humor can be a powerful asset in any profession. The renewed interest in his early work is prompting calls for a retrospective of his comedic performances, perhaps bringing a new generation to appreciate the full scope of his artistry.