Monte-Carlo TV Festival’s 65th Edition: Exclusive Insights & Fan Favorites Revealed!

This past weekend, all eyes were on Monaco as Kimi Antonelli clinched a thrilling victory at the Formula 1 Grand Prix. Beyond its reputation for high-speed races, Monaco serves as a stunning setting for various films and gatherings, and has been home to the Monte-Carlo TV Festival since the early 1960s.

The 65th edition of the Festival is set to commence with the third season of The Walking Dead: Dead City. Esteemed actors Kristin Scott Thomas and Kurt Russell are slated to receive the prestigious Crystal Nymph award. Up-and-coming stars Ester Expósito and Matthew Broome will be honored for their promising talents, amidst a slew of contenders vying for the Golden Nymph awards in categories like fiction, digital, and news documentaries.

In anticipation of the event, Deadline spoke with the Festival’s Executive Director, Cécile Menoni, for insights into this year’s highlights.

DEADLINE: With so many festivals and events happening, where does the Monte-Carlo TV Festival stand?

Cécile Menoni: Monte-Carlo distinguishes itself by merging the industry and public spheres seamlessly. Over five days, everyone from writers and producers to actors, reporters, and viewers share the same space and engage in meaningful interactions.

The Festival also holds significant historical importance. Since its inception by Prince Rainier III in 1961, it has witnessed nearly every major shift in TV—from public broadcasting dominance to the rise of cable, global co-productions, streaming, and now digital narratives.

DEADLINE: What are the highlights for this year’s 65th edition?

Cécile Menoni: We are thrilled to honor Kristin Scott Thomas and Kurt Russell with the Crystal Nymphs. Moreover, stars like Jeffrey Dean Morgan and Lauren Cohan will present The Walking Dead: Dead City, and we’ll feature industry giants and fresh talents alike, including Michael Hirst and Ester Expósito.

This year’s competition is especially rich, reflecting the diverse and global nature of contemporary storytelling.

DEADLINE: How do you balance industry-focused and public events?

Cécile Menoni: The public activities generate excitement and foster connections between creators and audiences, while the industry side facilitates networking and strategic discussions. Our goal is to foster an environment for natural interaction and creative exchange.

DEADLINE: Can you discuss how the Festival has evolved?

Cécile Menoni: The landscape is far more complex now with global streamers, digital platforms, and independent producers reshaping how content is created and consumed. Our Festival aims to not only keep pace with these changes but to lead the conversation, which is why we’ve expanded our Business Forum and introduced new competitive categories.

DEADLINE: Why were Kristin Scott Thomas and Kurt Russell chosen for this year’s Crystal Nymphs?

Cécile Menoni: Both have significantly impacted the TV and film industries. Kristin Scott Thomas is celebrated for her powerful performances and artistic integrity, while Kurt Russell’s remarkable versatility and appeal across different audiences make him an iconic figure in entertainment.

DEADLINE: How significant is the American presence at the Festival?

Cécile Menoni: The connection with American talent has been crucial since the Festival’s inception. It’s fascinating to see how this relationship has evolved, with European and American productions increasingly influencing each other in a global entertainment landscape.

DEADLINE: Looking back, what are some memorable moments from the Festival?

Cécile Menoni: This milestone anniversary prompts reflection on the Festival’s rich history, highlighted in a documentary that explores its evolution and enduring relationship with the TV industry, featuring insights from many key figures in television.

The Festival continues to be a hub for celebrating storytelling, bringing together creative minds, industry leaders, and audiences in a shared passion that has remained vibrant since 1961.