“Audio interviews relieve pressure and I prefer not to be on camera for extended periods,” stated Serge Thériault, reflecting on his participation in the upcoming documentary titled ‘T’étais où Serge?’. This film, set to air on ICI Télé at 8:00 pm ET on March 14, 2026, offers a unique glimpse into the life of the comedian and actor, who has been absent from public life for over a decade.
The documentary features a long-form audio interview with Thériault, conducted by director Catherine Proulx. Notably, Thériault chose to remain off-screen for most of the film, opting instead to share his thoughts through voice alone. This decision underscores his desire to address his experiences with depression and bipolarity, which are central themes of the narrative.
In addition to Thériault’s reflections, the documentary includes contributions from notable colleagues such as Michel Rivard, Claude Meunier, Guylaine Tremblay, Marc Messier, and Louis Bélanger. Their insights help frame the life and work of Thériault, whose absence from television, film, and stage has spanned more than ten years.
The film also incorporates previously unseen archival material related to Thériault’s career, providing context and depth to his story. It aims to reach a broader audience by transitioning from its initial availability on ICI TOU.TV EXTRA, where it was made accessible in December 2025, to conventional television.
The project was initiated after Thériault reached out to the producer of ‘La petite vie’ to discuss his long absence from screens, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of the series. This prompted a deeper exploration of his career and the challenges he faced during his time away from the spotlight.
As the documentary prepares for its broadcast, it is expected to spark conversations about the mental health of artists in the entertainment industry. “Serge Thériault agreed to be heard, and the testimony assembled in the documentary now demands that colleagues, producers, and cultural institutions translate understanding into concrete measures to protect artists’ health and dignity,” a statement regarding the film emphasized.
With its focus on both personal and professional aspects of Thériault’s life, ‘T’étais où Serge?’ promises to be a compelling portrayal of a beloved figure in Canadian comedy.
