Claude Savarit Critiques Nagui's Revival of Intervilles

Claude Savarit, co-creator of the beloved French game show *Intervilles*, has publicly criticized the 2023 revival hosted by Nagui, expressing deep discontent over significant format changes. In an interview with *Var-Matin*, Savarit described his feelings of sadness and outrage when he saw the new version's failure to include the iconic 'vachettes', which have been integral to the show's identity since it first aired in 1962. He condemned the current adaptation as "scandaleux" (scandalous), stating, "That night I was struck by a great sadness. It's scandalous to see what they've done with it."

Savarit is particularly disappointed by the show's new setup, deeming it lacking in engaging content and criticizing the games for being nothing more than "petits jeux de plage" (small beach games), which deviate from the original spirit and rules of *Intervilles*. He lamented, "The players are almost never together, how do you expect us to be interested in that?" With declining audience ratings since its relaunch on July 3, 2023, Savarit's critique reflects an overall negative reception of the new format.

Furthermore, the removal of the vachettes was defended by Nagui on the grounds of animal welfare, a justification Savarit vehemently disputes, labeling it as "grotesque et rédhibitoire" (grotesque and a deal-breaker). He hinted at a potential lawsuit against Banijay, the production company, stating, "Nagui's *Intervilles* is no longer *Intervilles*!" Savarit concluded with sentiments of regret for having entrusted his creation to Nagui, expressing feeling betrayed: "I thought they would make good television. I was wrong."