In the serene surroundings of Heritage Le Telfair, in Mauritius, Florence Foresti has chosen to begin 2025. The renowned French comedian and actress sat down with us for an interview, a conversation infused with her signature humor, in which she reflects on pivotal moments of her career, her sources of inspiration, and her upcoming projects.
It’s a real pleasure to welcome you here in Mauritius, more specifically at Heritage Le Telfair. Tell us, what were your first impressions when you arrived?
From the moment we arrived, we were struck by the architecture. I clearly remember the first day, when we walked into the reception… We all said “Wow!” You’re instantly immersed in an atmosphere unlike any other. It feels like you’re traveling right away, with these colonial, English-inspired wooden architecture. It’s incredibly refreshing. You quickly forget about Paris—the gray skies, the traffic jams… You’re immediately transported into something wonderful.
You had the chance to visit our Heritage Marine Education Center, a new space dedicated to educating visitors about marine ecosystems. What did you think of it?
I absolutely loved it! I should have gone there as soon as I arrived because I learned so much about the local ecosystem. It should be an essential stop for every visitor. The Heritage Marine Education Center is beautifully designed: it’s fun, interactive, and supported by an amazing team. The young people running it are passionate and dynamic. They have a real desire to make a difference, and I’m convinced they’ll succeed. Their love for the island, its fauna, and flora is contagious. I learned so much about coral reefs, local biodiversity, the climate… It was truly fascinating.
This center aligns perfectly with Heritage Resorts’ commitment to responsible luxury and environment. Is sustainability an important factor for you when you travel?
Today, more and more of us are reflecting on sustainability, respect for local communities, and the environment. Knowing that you’re in a place that manages its resources well, minimizes waste, and limits plastic use… that’s incredibly reassuring. We all want to move in the same direction. I’m not an environmental expert, but like many people, I’m deeply sensitive to this cause. When you can enjoy a relaxing, rejuvenating vacation and know you’re not harming the planet, it’s a win-win… everyone is happy.
Let’s talk about your career as a comedian. Your themes are constantly evolving. How do you choose the topics you explore?
I don’t really choose them; they come to me! I just pick up on what strikes me most in life. It could be everyday things, like sharing my “regular” mom struggles, just like everyone else. It’s the absurdities of life that catch my attention, and I either feel inspired to bring them to the stage or not. But honestly, I don’t have the luxury of choice. I’m always observing my surroundings—my life, the people around me, my loved ones, and the encounters I have.
I try to keep things fresh by asking myself what makes me laugh or what will make my loved ones laugh… and from there, I trust it’ll resonate with the audience too.
You’re known for often playing exaggerated characters. Is there a role you’d like to explore more, and how does humor adapt to these sensibilities?
It’s true, I’d love to return to performing character-based shows! Nowadays, I tend to focus more on shows where I interact directly with the audience, as if we were in my living room. I do miss the characters I played, especially on French TV in the early years, about fifteen or even twenty years ago.
I particularly enjoy caricaturing powerful figures: politicians, business leaders… they’re often more fun to exaggerate than others.
You’ve also appeared in films several times. Do you prefer the stage or the big screen?
Without hesitation, the stage! The direct connection with the audience is irreplaceable. Hearing the laughter in real-time, feeling the energy of the room… there’s nothing like it. That said, cinema has brought me wonderful experiences and collaborations. Acting alongside other performers is a real joy. In a one-woman show, you’re on your own from start to finish. Sharing the stage with fellow artists? That’s the absolute dream.
You’re an inspiration to many young comedians. What advice would you give them for succeeding in such a demanding field?
I’m probably not the best person to give advice, especially today when careers start in such a different way, thanks to social media. But if there’s one thing I’d say, it’s to be authentic and perform as much as possible. You need to listen to yourself and to your audience. The rest is just talk!
And what are your plans for 2025?
I plan to stay in Mauritius as long as possible. And of course, to return to Heritage Le Telfair (laughs).
Artistically, I always take time between shows. I want to experience new things, gather fresh inspiration for a new show, definitely.
