Where Were You, Serge? (T’étais où Serge?) is a deeply human documentary offering an intimate look into the life and career of actor Serge Thériault, a prominent figure in Quebec culture. Written and directed by Catherine Proulx and produced by Monique Lamoureux and Nadia Ruel for Avanti-Toast, the documentary will be available online on Friday, December 12 on ICI TOU.TV EXTRA and broadcast on Saturday, March 14 at 8 p.m. on ICI TÉLÉ, simultaneously on ICI PREMIÈRE and available for catch-up viewing on Radio-Canada OHdio.

A long-time fixture on television, in film, and on stage, Serge Thériault has left his mark on several generations through iconic works such as Ding et Dong, Paul et Paul, The Quirky Family (La Petite Vie), Les Boys, and Gaz Bar Blues. But behind the public image, a mystery has taken hold: for over a decade, Serge has withdrawn from the world, living a secluded life in Joliette. The documentary opens with this heavy silence, as Serge’s absence becomes a source of curiosity and concern for the public. Some imagine him enjoying a peaceful retirement, but the reality is far more complex.

In this documentary, Serge’s voice becomes the narrative thread, allowing viewers to delve into his memories, reflections, and emotions as he grapples with the pressures of his profession. Archival footage, some of it previously unseen, retraces Serge’s exceptional career.

Where Were You, Serge? also explores the unique bond between the actor and his audience. Despite his prolonged absence, the connection remains strong: every piece of news about him evokes a wave of nostalgia and emotion. Serge, for his part, struggles to grasp the depth of this love. The documentary explores the paradox between the desire to connect with people and the need to distance oneself, offering a sensitive reflection on image, intimacy, and celebrity. Serge’s words are interspersed with comments from people who knew him, both as friends and colleagues, including Michel Rivard, Claude Meunier, Guylaine Tremblay, Marc Messier, and director Louis Bélanger.

Where Were You, Serge? explores the light and shadow in Serge Thériault’s life, offering a universal reflection on solitude, fragility, illness, and the resilience of an artist who, despite his absence, continues to deeply touch the hearts of audiences.