Bernard Pivot, the famous writer and presenter, known for his role as a conduit for literature and for creating the television programme ‘Apostrophes’, has passed away at the age of 89. For decades, he shared his love of the French language and literature by inviting the greatest writers to his table, captivating audiences across France

Bernard Pivot, journalist, writer and former president of the Académie Goncourt, has died at the age of 89 in Neuilly-sur-Seine, his daughter Cécile Pivot told AFP. Born in May 1935, the son of Lyon grocers, he began his career at Le Progrès before moving on to Le Figaro littéraire, but it was on television that he made his name.

His literary programmes, notably ‘Ouvrez les guillemets’ and above all ‘Apostrophe’, hosted for 15 years on Antenne 2, then ‘Bouillon de culture’, have left their mark on French television. He hosted the greatest writers, from Nabokov to Bukowski, Marguerite Duras and Alexandre Soljenitsyne. Artists from all walks of life have also graced its stage, from Brassens and Ferré to Renaud, Fanny Ardant, Jane Fonda and Marcello Mastroianni.

From 1975 to 1990, ‘Apostrophe’ was the scene of passionate exchanges between authors, and certain sequences have become cult, sometimes resurfacing in the news, as during the Matzneff affair. Bernard Pivot, recognisable by his glasses and relaxed style, would read extracts, ask questions, and clearly enjoyed talking to the authors.

Passionate about words, he has written numerous books on subjects close to his heart, such as literature, wine and football. His latest book, ‘Mais la vie continue’, published in 2021, deals in particular with the theme of ageing.

Bernard Pivot was also known for having organised the final of the French spelling championships every year from 1986 to 2005, the famous ‘dictée de Pivot’, which caused viewers to break out in a cold sweat when faced with complex words.

A regular on social networks, he enthusiastically shared his thoughts, joys and criticisms. His familiar presence on the small screen for more than four decades left an indelible mark on the French media landscape.