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You definitely know Maïtena Biraben if you hang out a bit in front of TVs or if you follow literary debates. Born on July 2, 1967, she is now 57 years old and about 1.75m tall, which gives her that elegant bearing she is well known for. Her journey is a mix of boldness and finesse.
I swear, her life is not just a success story on TV. She comes from Épinay-sur-Seine, that Parisian suburb often a bit dark on maps, but she grew up in Landes with an education among the Dominican sisters. Just that alone shapes your personality, you know what I mean?
Even before becoming this essential face on Canal+, she was already far from the Parisian glitter. Paris Tolbiac, history on the curriculum, a little intellectual spark to start. Then a jump to Switzerland with her partner at the time in 1985, where she dived into radio and local TV. Far from being a starlet of the star system, she built everything the old-fashioned way, through hard work.
And on top of that, she became a mom right away, she has Lucas, a woman’s life with its complexities, blues, and great joys. None of that was kept silent, because Maïtena likes speaking real, unfiltered. It brings such a crazy freshness, don’t you think?
Who is Maïtena Biraben: from Épinay-sur-Seine to TV studios
Honestly, understanding Maïtena also means diving into her roots: a Basque photogravure father, a stay-at-home mother, and this religious education in Landes that could have held her back. And yet, she chooses TV as her playground and means of expression. First at Télévision Suisse Romande as early as 1989, behind and in front of the camera.
When she returned to France in the mid-90s, cable and classic channels welcomed her with open arms, but she never looked for the easy way. That’s where she really started in French TV, building a relationship with her audience, the early risers on France 2’s Télématin, where she delivered her cinema columns, in a simple, sincere, endearing tone.
Les Maternelles on France 5 was her from 2001 to 2004, and believe me, that show left its mark. For the best educational show, she even received a 7 d’Or. Yes, that award is a bit like the Oscar of mainstream shows, and she got it, no one can say it was by chance.
After that, she moved to Canal+, where the role of “great host” suited her well with shows like Le Supplément and especially Le Grand Journal. A real turning point. She succeeded Antoine de Caunes, that’s no small feat, and she tackled this big challenge brilliantly, believe me.
The professional journey of Maïtena Biraben: between TV and commitments
Ella Biraben has never been the type to stick to just one box. Radio Suisse Romande, Télévision Suisse Romande, Télématin, France 3, France 5, Canal+… She covered it all, always with that contagious energy and passionate view on society and culture. Over the years, she shaped this unique style.
I must say her stint at Canal+ from 2004 through Le Grand Journal really set the foundations of her contemporary popularity. With Le Supplément, she managed to mix news and lightness, which is not always easy. And then… she’s a rugby fan. Yes, it surprises, but it fits this image of a sporty and committed woman.
Her curiosity about the world doesn’t stop at TV. She also writes, notably novels and columns. She even founded Mesdames, a media outlet giving voice to women over 50. So yes, she talks feminism and real life with the same passion she puts into hosting her shows.
A funny anecdote? During the 2007 Rugby World Cup, she stood out as a consultant on RTL. She knew what she was talking about, not just filling air time. That’s the mark of true enthusiasts, not just a passing celebrity.
Private life and personal commitments of Maïtena Biraben
Because you can’t talk about her without addressing her off-camera life, Maïtena is also a devoted mom to Lucas. That’s an aspect that makes her even more human and approachable. Her divorce in 1995 was a turning point, bringing her back to France and pushing her to tighten her ties with her roots.
She now lives a fairly discreet but engaged life, notably defending women and issues related to menopause, a topic she tirelessly addresses to break taboos. A true breath of truth in an often very polished environment.
And what’s truly fascinating is the energy she puts into creation and sharing. She’s always there, ready to talk about real issues, far from blurred screens and superficial glitter. The audience loves it, they feel the sincerity.
At 57, she is an essential personality, mixing everything: TV, books, sports, social causes. Honestly, such authentic versatility is rare. She is a living proof that one can be a woman, mother, media figure, and engaged woman while still being herself.
An engaged president for literature: the 2026 Prix Maison de la Presse
In 2025, she was appointed president of the jury for the 57th edition of the Prix Maison de la Presse. A crowning achievement for this literature enthusiast who doesn’t just read but wants to share books that touch a broad audience.
This prize is something she loves precisely because it speaks to everyone: no headaches or elitism, but accessible and very well-written novels. She works with about thirty booksellers, and it’s a real collective effort mixing discussions, exchanges, and a lot of intense reading.
She herself said she’s eager to discover the authors and their stories. And honestly, with her sense of dialogue and sensitivity, she’s the right profile for this prestigious role. It fits perfectly with her image: a passionate woman, demanding but full of humanity.
The award ceremony will take place in May, and we’re all eagerly waiting to see which novel will capture her enthusiasm. For those who love books and strong personalities, it’s a beautiful story that continues to be written.
Her milestones and notable collaborations
Did you know she hosted unforgettable shows like Les Maternelles or Le Supplément? That’s big stuff. And her collaborations with humorists like Stéphane de Groodt for the “Chroniques d’outre-tombe” left their mark. A perfect blend of intelligence and humor.
TV is a great adventure for her. And recent projects, like Mesdames, this media dedicated to women over 50, show she never stops. She is also a novelist, with several works to her credit, including the much-appreciated La Femme Invisible.
She continues to make headlines through her commitments, be it in sports or culture. In a time where image prevails, she embodies a rare and sought-after form of sincerity. It makes you want to follow what she will do tomorrow.
To learn more about her life, her children, or her place of residence, don’t hesitate to consult this article or discover her writings and interviews on Babelio for an in-depth dive.
Top 5 key moments of Maïtena Biraben on TV and beyond
- ✨ Les Maternelles on France 5, her first major role and a notable success
- ✨ Cinema columns on Télématin in the early 2000s, a daily appointment
- ✨ President of the jury of the Prix Maison de la Presse in 2026, a major milestone
- ✨ Hosting the Grand Journal on Canal+, a challenge met
- ✨ Creation of the media Mesdames, a strong voice for women in their fifties
Yes, we’re far from the classic image. These videos are captivating, you’ll see how accessible and genuine she is in front of the camera.
A little trip back to the roots in images of this show that marked a whole generation of parents. You’ll quickly understand why she’s still so appreciated.
