Audrey Crespo-Mara Biography
Childhood
Audrey Crespo-Mara was born on July 8, 1976, in Meaux, Seine-et-Marne, France. She grew up in a modest family; her mother was initially a hairdresser and her father worked as a driving school instructor before both transitioned to banking careers. Audrey also has an older brother who pursued a career in medicine. From a young age, her mother enrolled her in classical dance classes which she practiced for over fifteen years. At thirteen, Audrey developed a strong interest in journalism, inspired by prominent journalists such as Françoise Giroud and Denise Glaser, shaping her future dedication to the profession.
Career
Audrey Crespo-Mara's academic path combined political studies and journalism training. She graduated from the Institut d'Études Politiques de Toulouse in 1997 and later from the Centre de Formation des Journalistes in Paris in 1999. After completing her studies, she joined TF1's newsroom in May 1999, where she created numerous societal and economic reports over almost a decade. By September 2007, she expanded her role by presenting "LCI Matin," a morning news program on LCI, the news channel of the TF1 group. Her versatility led her to cover significant live events such as the funeral of Abbé Pierre, Pope Benedict XVI’s visit to France, the 20th anniversary of the Berlin Wall's fall, and the royal wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton. Audrey has hosted various shows including weekly cultural and ecological programs, and since 2020, she has been the author of the "Portrait de la semaine" segment on TF1's "Sept à huit."
Current Family Life
Audrey Crespo-Mara was married to the well-known French TV presenter Thierry Ardisson, with whom she began a relationship in November 2009 and married in June 2014. They remained together until his death in July 2025. Audrey has two children, including her son Sékou Mara, who is a professional footballer. She continues to maintain a prominent presence in French media, balancing her professional commitments alongside her family life.
Audrey Crespo-Mara Summary
Audrey Crespo-Mara is a distinguished French journalist and television presenter known for her insightful reporting and live event coverage. Her journey began in a modest family setting in Meaux and was marked by early passion for journalism and classical dance. Professionally, she has built a respected career primarily with TF1 and LCI, contributing to both news presentation and cultural programming. Her family life, notably her marriage to Thierry Ardisson and her role as a mother, remains an important part of her personal story while she continues to influence French journalism with her work.