Remembering Jacques Salvail — A Radiant Voice of Quebec Silenced
It’s with a heavy heart that I share the passing of Jacques Salvail, a cherished singer, television host, and a true icon of Quebec’s cultural history. He died at the age of 79 on Sunday evening, after battling chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. His departure marks the end of a joyful and spirited era — a time when his warm voice and magnetic presence filled our radios and television screens, and most importantly, our hearts.
Jacques Salvail’s career started back in the 1960s, when he took to the airwaves at CFML in Cornwall, then CJRS in Sherbrooke. From there, his journey led him to CJMS and CKLM in Montreal. But it was in 1971, when he succeeded Pierre Lalonde as the host of Jeunesse d’Aujourd’hui — later simply Jeunesse — that his star truly began to shine. That show wasn’t just a TV program; it was a cultural moment. For three years, Salvail’s charm, energy, and natural charisma made him a household name and earned him the title of “Male Revelation of the Year” at the 1972 Gala des Artistes.
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As a singer, Jacques wasn’t just a voice — he was a storyteller. He offered heartfelt interpretations of songs like Le bonheur c’est toi , Mary , Une belle histoire , and covers of Elton John’s Daniel and Stevie Wonder’s I Just Called to Say I Love You . His disco-inspired tracks in the later 1970s, such as Plus jamais seul and Rien ne peut nous arrêter , carried his signature warmth and optimism.
But Jacques was never just confined to one role. In the 1980s, he gracefully transitioned into theatre, forming a close artistic partnership with the late Gilles Latulippe. He shared the stage with other Quebec greats, continuing to bring joy and laughter to audiences across the province.
His passing was confirmed by his son Carl Salvail, who shared touching words: “He was ready. He said, ‘I’m going to join my friends.’” His family had the precious opportunity to say goodbye over a few meaningful days, surrounded by love and memories. Carl also recalled a more recent moment — his father, dressed as Santa Claus for a photo shoot, lighting up children’s eyes just like he had done decades earlier on television. That same sparkle, that joy, had never left him.
Jacques Salvail may be gone, but his voice, his laughter, and his legacy will forever echo in Quebec’s collective memory. He wasn’t just a performer — he was a symbol of joy, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his art. Rest in peace, Jacques. Your light will never fade.
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