Monte-Carlo TV Festival 2025: A Glamorous Hub for Global Television’s Innovations and Social Conversations

Monte-Carlo immediately evokes images of casinos, super-yachts, and thrilling motor races. But each June, this glamorous locale also becomes the meeting place for the global television industry’s finest at the Monte-Carlo TV Festival — a unique event blending industry insights, star power, and audience engagement.

A Legacy of TV Excellence Since 1961

Since its inception in 1961, the Monte-Carlo TV Festival has grown into a prestigious event attracting an international roster of executives, creators, and talent. The festival takes place at the Grimaldi Forum, where fans gather eagerly outside for premieres, autograph sessions, and Q+As.

Cécile Menoni, the Festival’s Executive Director, highlights the festival’s mission: “Public access is not an afterthought — it’s an integral part of our philosophy. At a time when the relationship between creators and audiences is increasingly mediated by algorithms, we believe in the power of real-life encounters.”

This year’s 64th edition aims to reflect the evolving global television landscape, focusing on priorities, innovations, and creative aspirations.

Evolving Competition and Socially Relevant Storytelling

The Festival’s competition has expanded to include limited series, digital productions, and international co-productions, reflecting the industry’s changing formats. Menoni notes that this year’s official selection spans drama, documentary, and current affairs, with a strong emphasis on pressing social issues such as:

• Climate justice

• Identity

• Human rights

• Mental health

• Freedom of the press

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“There’s also a strong focus on female-driven narratives, both in front of and behind the camera,” Menoni adds.

Honoring Robin Wright and Female Empowerment

In alignment with these themes, the Festival will honor actress and filmmaker Robin Wright with its highest accolade, the Crystal Nymph Award. Menoni explains, “Beyond her performances, what makes her presence so meaningful is her trajectory as a filmmaker and her ongoing commitment to causes that matter, particularly female empowerment and human rights.”

Wright joins a distinguished list of previous honorees including Morgan Freeman, Michael Douglas, and Patricia Arquette.

Recognizing Digital Creators with a New Award

Acknowledging the growing cultural impact of digital talent, the Festival introduces a new Digital Award, which will be presented to Squeezie, a French YouTuber with a massive following. Menoni says, “This is a way of acknowledging the legitimacy and cultural impact of digital talent. Moving forward, we aim to open more doors for these creators through dedicated programming and industry conversations that engage younger audiences.”

Business Conversations Behind the Glamour

Inside the Grimaldi Forum, the Festival’s business-focused sessions provide a platform for crucial industry discussions. Highlights include a Deadline-moderated conversation with producers Rola Bauer and David W. Zucker of Scott Free.

Menoni emphasizes the unique atmosphere Monte-Carlo offers: “The glamor of Monte-Carlo is undeniable, but behind the scenes, some of the most impactful conversations in television are taking place. This year’s Business Content covers everything from financing independent series to the rise of AI tools, new content formats, and ethical storytelling.”

“Monte-Carlo provides the calm and elegance that invite reflection, away from the frenzy of larger markets.”