Relaunch of 'Intervilles' Draws Controversy Over Removal of Live Bulls
The relaunch of 'Intervilles' on July 3 excludes live bulls, sparking public controversy.
Key Points
- • Relaunch of 'Intervilles' features new mascot Topa instead of live bulls.
- • Controversy arises as municipalities like Dax and Mont-de-Marsan opt out of participation.
- • Mayor of Mont-de-Marsan criticizes the removal of vachettes as detrimental to local traditions.
- • The show will keep classic elements and introduce a new theme song by Dorian Lux.
France 2 is set to relaunch the iconic game show 'Intervilles' today, July 3, 2025, with a new format that notably excludes the traditional live bulls, known as vachettes, which previously charged at contestants in an arena. The show will instead feature a mascot named Topa, designed to embody the spirit of the original format. This change has sparked controversy, particularly among municipalities like Dax and Mont-de-Marsan, which have opted out of participating due to their long-standing traditions involving the live vachettes.
Mont-de-Marsan’s mayor, Charles Dayot, expressed disappointment with the decision, indicating that it undermines local customs that have been part of the program's legacy. He highlighted the importance of maintaining the show's connection to local traditions involving the vache landaise, stating, "This change takes away the essence that our region holds dear."
The host of the show, Nagui, defended the format change, prioritizing animal welfare. "She is better off frolicking in the fields than in an arena with five thousand people shouting at her," he remarked, justifying the exclusion of live animals from the show. Despite the new mascot, the show aims to retain several beloved elements from its past, including classic games like inflatable costume races, alongside introducing a new theme song created by Dorian Lux, the great-grandson of the show’s original creator.
The inaugural episode features a competition between Beauvais and Coulanges-Lès-Nevers, with additional episodes planned for July 10 and July 17, culminating in a grand finale on July 24. The relaunch reflects a broader trend in television where production decisions increasingly consider animal rights and welfare alongside the desire to keep traditional elements alive.