French TV Channels C8 and NRJ12 Cease Broadcasting After Regulatory Decision

The non-renewal of their TNT licenses by France's media regulator sparks political and industry debate over freedom of expression and public broadcasting standards.

C8 and NRJ12, long-standing channels on France's digital terrestrial television (TNT), were taken off the air on February 28, 2025, following a decision by the independent media regulator, Arcom, not to renew their licenses.
Arcom cited violations, including repeated fines for offensive content on C8 and insufficient programming commitments on NRJ12, as reasons for the non-renewal, with the decision upheld by the Conseil d'État.
The closures have drawn sharp political reactions, with right-wing figures accusing the government of censorship, while others praised the move as a step toward higher broadcast standards.
C8's final broadcast included a controversial anti-abortion film and a retrospective of its programming, while NRJ12 also aired highlights from its two-decade history; both channels face significant job losses as a result of the shutdown.
The vacated frequencies will be replaced by new channels T18 and OFTV later this year, while C8's former host Cyril Hanouna is set to join the M6 Group with new programs starting in September.