Élodie Gossuin reflects on her deep bond with Geneviève de Fontenay, who passed away in August 2023. During an RTL broadcast, Élodie shared her memories of their close relationship, emphasizing the emotional support and mentorship she received. She expressed her sadness over Geneviève’s loneliness in her later years and vowed to prioritize her family. Élodie declined the idea of stepping into Geneviève’s legacy, valuing the personal connection over professional politics, highlighting their enduring friendship.
Élodie Gossuin Reflects on Her Bond with Geneviève de Fontenay
Élodie Gossuin, a devoted mother of four, skillfully balances her family commitments with her dynamic media career. However, on Saturday, November 30, the former Miss France 2001 took a moment from her busy life to share heartfelt reflections on her unique relationship with Geneviève de Fontenay, who sadly passed away in August 2023 at the age of 90. During her appearance on RTL’s “On refait la télé,” hosted by Éric Dussart, Élodie opened up about the deep connection they shared.
A Lasting Connection Beyond the Crown
Éric Dussart, known for his close ties with the iconic figure, is among the few who maintained a strong relationship with Geneviève de Fontenay after her exit from the Miss France committee. This enduring bond speaks to the values and mutual respect that defined their connection. In contrast to other past titleholders like Sylvie Tellier or Rachel Legrain-Trapani, Élodie kept in regular touch with the woman who crowned her in 2001, visiting her frequently until her final days.
With emotion, Élodie expressed, “I miss her, plain and simple,” during the broadcast from the Reims Christmas market. She fondly reminisced about the times spent with her mentor, stating, “I loved being scolded by her. At the same time, we could talk about anything. There are few great ladies like her.” These candid moments revealed not just a mentor-mentee relationship but a profound affection and an exceptional bond between the two. Cindy Fabre, the current director of the Miss France contest, also acknowledged this cherished connection in her tributes to Geneviève.
Élodie was particularly touched by the solitude Geneviève faced in her later years, as she was one of the few who kept a close bond with her. “She was very lonely, and that served as a life lesson for me,” she shared, recalling her regular visits to Geneviève’s home in Saint-Cloud. This presence was invaluable to the former committee president, who, despite her loneliness, maintained her legendary dignity, preferring to welcome visitors only when she felt at her best. Élodie learned important lessons from their relationship, stating, “I promised myself that my family would always be my priority.”
When asked about the possibility of stepping into Geneviève de Fontenay’s legacy, Élodie Gossuin firmly stated her intentions. “I’m not interested, because I remain an 18-year-old girl with glitter in her eyes,” she explained, choosing to honor her memories rather than delve into the contest’s politics. This decision encapsulates the insights she gained from her relationship with Geneviève, particularly regarding the importance of maintaining a balance between professional aspirations and personal life.
As Éric Dussart noted during the show, Élodie Gossuin treasures the moments shared with Geneviève de Fontenay, considering her to be “one of the most beautiful encounters” of her life. This touching testimony highlights the enduring depth of a friendship that has weathered the trials of time and circumstance.