On June 4, 2025, a shocking incident unfolded live on the show Ça peut vous arriver, aired on RTL and M6. During a discussion surrounding a car dispute , an audience member named Joseph Esposito, a mechanic from Béziers, made a highly inappropriate remark aimed at journalist Céline Collonge regarding her visual impairment. He bluntly commented, “It’s always the one-eyed woman who speaks, she pleases me. She has sugar to break on everyone”.
Julien Courbet Stands up for Collonge
Shocked by this derogatory comment, Julien Courbet , the host, swiftly intervened. He firmly asserted, “Are you joking, sir? Do you realize what you’re saying? Apologize now, because the entire France is hearing you insult a disabled woman as ‘one-eyed’. This is disgraceful!”
Facing a provocative audience member, Courbet did not relent, stating, “So Joseph Esposito from the auto garage in Béziers is calling women one-eyed on air?” He urged Esposito to turn off the radio and television playing in the background and demanded an apology. The man, however, refused and hung up.
Collonge Shows Grace Under Pressure
Despite the hurtful remarks directed at her, Céline Collonge maintained her composure and responded, “I sustained a disability following an accident when I was younger; what’s the problem? It doesn’t stop me from doing my job, and I believe I do it well.”
Following the incident, Collonge took to social media to express her gratitude for the overwhelming support she received from the public. She wrote: “I focus on the positive: the hundreds of supportive messages from my friends, listeners, and viewers. You flooded my inbox and warmed my heart. Thank you all.”
Julien Courbet also addressed the situation in a follow-up video on social media, stating, “To the mechanic who insulted Céline, we want to tell you: she is the most beautiful, the kindest, and the smartest.”
The Importance of Respect and Inclusivity
This incident highlights the persistent challenges that disabled individuals face in society, including discrimination and unfounded stigmas. Moreover, it showcases the critical role of media personalities like Julien Courbet in advocating for inclusivity and respect. Courbet’s immediate defense of Collonge embodies the values of solidarity and respect that should be extended to every individual, irrespective of their disabilities.
The backlash against Esposito’s remarks serves to remind society of the responsibility we all hold in promoting respect and awareness regarding disabilities. Online platforms have erupted with supportive messages, many emphasizing that this is not just about Céline Collonge, but about ensuring a more inclusive society for everyone.
Reactions from the Public and Media
The reaction from the public has been overwhelmingly supportive of Collonge. Many took to social media to express their outrage over the incident, calling for accountability and respect for disabled individuals. Advocacy groups have highlighted how such remarks contribute to a culture of stigma and discrimination against those with visual impairments or other disabilities, emphasizing the need for education and awareness around these issues.
Furthermore, media professionals have rallied in support of Collonge, with several journalists and media commentators taking to platforms like Twitter and Instagram to showcase their solidarity and support for her. This incident has sparked broader discussions about disability rights and the need for diversity and inclusion within mainstream media.
The overwhelming support for Céline Collonge resonates beyond mere sympathy; it reflects a collective call to action to challenge societal norms that allow for discrimination to persist. It invites us to reconsider how we talk about individuals with disabilities and underscores the importance of fostering a culture of acceptance rather than division.
Céline Collonge’s resilience, paired with Julien Courbet’s fierce defense, exemplifies the need for advocates to speak up and stand together against discrimination . The unity displayed in response to this incident reinforces the belief that we can create a society where everyone is valued and respected, regardless of their challenges.