It was quite an institution in Canada, one of the most developed and wealthy countries in the world. And that’s why the news surprised even more: Lisa LaFlamme, 58was fired as a presenter of one of the news programs of the greatest public Canadian television. In a two-minute video posted on Twitter, the journalist clarified that her dismissal It is produced by “leaving gray hair”which provoked the anger of the networks in the face of a major issue: the rigid professional requirements faced by women, certain demands that not only remain in professional performance, but also invade physical appearance.

In the video, LaFlamme states “sad and shocked”. The journalist hoped to be able keep sharing stories of interestbut the broadcaster’s executives felt that after 11 years in the role, it was time for a change.

The dismissal coincided with the “gray transition” of journalist LaFlamme was one of the women who He decided stop dyeing during the pandemic to show off her gray hair. He then stated that his decision had been “liberating” and that he would have liked to do it sooner. Surprisingly, drop the dye It didn’t end up being a personal decision. According to The Globe newspaper, Michael Melling, one of the chain’s most experienced executives, demanded an explanation, alleging that no one from management had approved stop dyeing.

Over time they began to emerge friction due to the editorial line of the program, despite the fact that LaFlamme was one of its most trusted employees, after 35 years of working in conflict zones. In recognition, just a few months ago, he was awarded the prize of Best Presenter at the Canadian Screen Awards.

LaFlamme’s shot triggered support reactions in Canadian society. Former Environment Minister Catherine McKenna called it a “incredibly sloppy”, while businessmen, politicians and simple spectators do not stop honoring him. “Lisa LaFlamme is a inspiring example of how to grow old with grace and dignity,” said Canadian businesswoman Arlene Dickinson before pointing out that she believed the directors of the television station for which the journalist worked had engaged in sexist behavior.

The chain reaction was not long in coming. They argue that the dismissal decision responds to the “change in viewing habits”. It is true that the LaFlamme show had dropped in audience, like other general television products, which today records lower audiences compared to previous times due to the emergence of new consumption associated with digital platforms.

However, faced with the wave of criticism, the channel will submit to the opinion of an independent body who will assess whether or not there was sexism and misogyny in this breach of contract. Meanwhile, the question that erupts in all this controversy is yes we are ready to see how women age.

In 2015, France fired Claire Chazal queen of news after 24 years at the head of weekend editions on TF1, the most listened to channel. He was replaced by Anne-Claire Coudray, ten years younger. On the night of September 13, the journalist thanked her colleagues and viewers for their support and loyalty, while a video showed some of her great moments with the enthusiastic applause of all team members.

Seven years later, Chazal admitted in an interview that his the dismissal was a surpriseover the phone and overnight. He was then 49 years old. For the journalist, there is no doubt that what she feared one day happened: that the fired when he did not radiate enough youth. “The call was made and I said to my son like this: ‘They called me. They fired me. That’s it.’ Chazal’s serenity does not hide an indisputable fact: the expectations of what men and women should give in front of a camera They are not the same.