For several days, the Principality of Monaco once again became one of the world's leading capitals of the television industry as it hosted the 65th Monte-Carlo Television Festival at the Grimaldi Forum, under the High Patronage of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco. Our editorial team had the opportunity to attend this anniversary edition, which once again confirmed the international prestige of a festival that has stood among the world's most respected television events since its creation in 1961.
Bringing together actors, directors, producers, screenwriters, streaming platforms, broadcasters, journalists, and content creators from across the globe, this year's edition celebrated the finest achievements in international television while highlighting the profound transformations currently reshaping the audiovisual industry.
Through its world premieres, prestigious Golden Nymph Awards, Business Forum, professional networking sessions, and the launch of a new Digital Competition, the Monte-Carlo Television Festival reaffirmed its role as a bridge between television's rich heritage and the future of audiovisual innovation.
A Prestigious Opening Dedicated to International Television Excellence
The Festival officially opened at the Grimaldi Forum with its traditional Blue Carpet, welcoming internationally renowned television and film personalities before hundreds of accredited journalists and photographers. Following the presentation of the official juries by host Genie Godula, H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco officially declared the 65th edition open, emphasizing that the Festival remains committed to its original mission: celebrating productions capable of inspiring audiences, encouraging reflection, and showcasing excellence in television storytelling. The Opening Ceremony also honored several outstanding figures from the international audiovisual industry. Spanish actress Ester Expósito, who rose to international fame through the hit Netflix series Elite, received the Golden Nymph Award for Most Promising International Talent, recognizing her remarkable rise and growing influence within the global entertainment industry. French television legend Michel Drucker received a standing ovation as he was presented with the Honorary Golden Nymph Award, recognizing more than six decades of exceptional contribution to French television. Another emotional highlight came with the presentation of the prestigious Crystal Nymph Award to Dame Kristin Scott Thomas, honoring her extraordinary international career as an actress, filmmaker, and screenwriter.An Exclusive International Premiere for The Walking Dead: Dead City
One of the opening night's major attractions was the international premiere of the first two episodes of Season 3 of The Walking Dead: Dead City, produced by AMC Studios. Actors Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Lauren Cohan, and showrunner Seth Hoffman joined audiences in Monaco to introduce the highly anticipated new chapter of one of television's most successful franchises. Set in a post-apocalyptic Manhattan isolated from the mainland, the series follows Maggie and Negan as they navigate dangerous alliances, power struggles, and constant threats in a devastated urban landscape. The premiere perfectly illustrated the Festival's commitment to showcasing both major international productions and innovative creative works from across the television industry.International Juries Reflecting the Diversity of Modern Television
As every year, the Festival assembled prestigious international juries composed of highly respected figures from the audiovisual world. The Fiction Jury was chaired by acclaimed British actress Lesley Manville, alongside Kevin McKidd, Greg Daniels, Hojin Kwon, Frédérique Bel, and Yasmin Finney. The News & Documentaries Jury was chaired by American filmmaker Joshua Seftel, while the newly created Digital Competition was led by Susanne Daniels, former Global Head of Original Content at YouTube. These diverse juries perfectly reflected today's audiovisual landscape, where traditional television, streaming platforms, digital creators, and online storytelling increasingly coexist within the same creative ecosystem.A Historic First for Digital Content
One of the Festival's most significant innovations this year was the official launch of its Digital Competition. For the first time in its history, the Monte-Carlo Television Festival presented Golden Nymph Awards dedicated exclusively to original digital productions. The new category recognizes innovative storytelling formats designed for today's evolving viewing habits, including short-form productions, social media content, immersive experiences, and interactive digital narratives. The initiative demonstrates the Festival's commitment to embracing the transformation of the entertainment industry while recognizing the growing influence of digital creators and emerging audiovisual formats.A Rich and Diverse Program
Throughout the week, festival attendees enjoyed an exceptionally rich program featuring:- 13 official screenings;
- 5 international premieres;
- 4 world premieres;
- 4 French premieres;
- more than 29 public events;
- autograph sessions;
- "Behind the Scenes" discussions;
- exclusive meetings with internationally renowned actors, directors, producers, and creators.
A Business Forum Driving Industry Conversations
Beyond its public events, the Business Forum has become one of the Festival's defining features. Over three days, creators, producers, broadcasters, streaming executives, investors, and international media leaders gathered to discuss the future of television. Conference topics included:- the evolution of storytelling;
- the future of premium television series;
- audience engagement;
- streaming platforms;
- emerging technologies;
- artificial intelligence;
- new business models within the television industry.
