geneviève pettersen

Geneviève Pettersen Quits Cogeco Média: A Stand for Values in Quebec’s Media Landscape

When a trusted voice walks away from a major media platform, it’s more than a career move—it’s a statement. In early November 2025, acclaimed Quebec journalist, author, and radio personality Geneviève Pettersen made headlines across Canadian media after announcing her resignation from Cogeco Média, the parent company of Montreal’s influential 98.5 FM radio station. Her departure wasn’t just about changing jobs; it was a deliberate act of alignment with personal and professional values—a decision that has sparked conversations about integrity, representation, and the evolving role of public voices in Quebec’s cultural sphere.

This article unpacks the verified facts behind Pettersen’s exit, explores the broader context of her career, and examines what her next chapter might mean for Quebec’s media ecosystem.

Main Narrative: Why Pettersen Walked Away

On November 3, 2025, multiple reputable Quebec news outlets—including 7 Jours, Le Journal de Montréal, and La Presse—reported that Geneviève Pettersen had officially resigned from Cogeco Média. The reason? A clear mismatch between her core values and the direction of the organization.

According to 7 Jours, Pettersen stepped down “for reasons of values” (pour des raisons de valeurs) after being removed from her role at 98.5 FM. While Cogeco has not issued a detailed public explanation, sources confirm that her show would not return for the upcoming broadcast season. Pettersen herself took to social media to clarify her stance, stating she left to remain “in coherence” (en cohérence) with her principles.

“I could not continue in an environment where my values were no longer reflected or respected,” Pettersen wrote in a now-viral Instagram post. “This wasn’t an easy choice, but it was necessary.”

Her exit marks a significant moment in Quebec’s media landscape—one where authenticity and ethical alignment are increasingly prioritized over institutional loyalty. For listeners who’ve followed her incisive commentary on social issues, urban life, and cultural shifts, this wasn’t just the loss of a radio host—it was the silencing of a distinct, unflinching voice.

Recent Updates: A Timeline of Key Developments

The events leading to Pettersen’s resignation unfolded rapidly in late October and early November 2025. Here’s a verified chronology based on reports from trusted Quebec news sources:

• Late October 2025: Rumors begin circulating that Pettersen’s show will not be renewed on 98.5 FM. An article by Étienne Paré in La Presse confirms the program’s cancellation, citing internal restructuring at Cogeco.

• November 3, 2025: Multiple outlets publish simultaneous reports confirming Pettersen’s resignation. Le Journal de Montréal notes she “slammed the door” (claqué la porte) on Cogeco Média, while La Presse frames it as a principled stand.

• Same day: Pettersen addresses her audience directly via Instagram, thanking supporters and reaffirming her commitment to journalistic integrity. She acknowledges the emotional weight of the decision but emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself.

Notably, Cogeco Média has remained largely silent beyond confirming the non-renewal of her contract. No official statement has been released regarding the specific values or policies that led to the rift.

Contextual Background: Who Is Geneviève Pettersen?

To understand the significance of this departure, it helps to know who Pettersen is beyond the microphone.

Born and raised in Chicoutimi, Quebec, Pettersen first gained national recognition as a novelist. Her debut work, La déesse des mouches à feu (The Goddess of Fireflies), won the prestigious Grand Prix littéraire Archambault and became a bestseller in Quebec. The novel, later adapted into a critically acclaimed film in 2020, captured the raw, rebellious spirit of 1990s adolescence in small-town Quebec—a theme that continues to resonate with readers across generations.

Her transition from literature to journalism was seamless. Known for her sharp wit, empathetic interviewing style, and fearless takes on social justice, gender equality, and urban transformation, Pettersen quickly became a fixture on Montreal airwaves. At 98.5 FM, she hosted segments that blended current affairs with cultural critique, often spotlighting underrepresented voices and challenging mainstream narratives.

Beyond radio, she’s active on social media—particularly Instagram, where she shares insights on daily life, media ethics, and creative projects. With over 16,000 followers, she maintains a direct line to her audience, reinforcing her reputation as a relatable yet intellectually rigorous public figure.

Her dual identity—as both artist and journalist—has allowed her to bridge Quebec’s literary and media worlds in ways few others have. This cross-disciplinary credibility makes her departure from Cogeco not just a personnel change, but a cultural moment.

Immediate Effects: Ripples Across Quebec Media

Pettersen’s resignation has triggered a wave of reactions—from fans, colleagues, and industry observers.

Audience Response

Since her announcement, Pettersen has received an outpouring of support. Listeners have flooded her social media with messages expressing disappointment, solidarity, and hope for her return to broadcasting. Many describe her as a rare voice of honesty in an increasingly commercialized media environment.

“She didn’t just report the news—she helped us understand what it meant,” wrote one fan on Instagram. “Quebec needs more people like her.”

Industry Implications

Her exit raises questions about the sustainability of independent journalism within large media conglomerates like Cogeco. As advertising pressures grow and content becomes more homogenized, creators who prioritize depth over clicks may find themselves increasingly at odds with corporate priorities.

Moreover, Pettersen’s case highlights a broader trend: the rise of value-driven career decisions among Canadian media professionals. In recent years, several journalists and hosts have left major networks citing ethical concerns, editorial interference, or lack of diversity in storytelling.

For Quebec specifically—a province with a strong tradition of cultural sovereignty and linguistic pride—the loss of a homegrown talent like Pettersen underscores the tension between commercial media models and the preservation of local, authentic voices.

Future Outlook: What’s Next for Pettersen—and Quebec Media?

While Pettersen has not yet announced concrete plans for her next professional chapter, several possibilities are emerging based on her past work and public statements.

Potential Paths Forward

1. Independent Media Ventures: Given her strong personal brand and loyal following, Pettersen could launch a podcast, Substack newsletter, or digital platform focused on long-form commentary and cultural analysis.

2. Return to Literature: With her English translation of The Goddess of Fireflies gaining traction internationally, she may shift focus back to writing—possibly exploring new genres or adapting her work for screen.

3. Advocacy & Mentorship: Pettersen has long championed emerging writers and journalists. She could take on a more formal role in media education or join an organization promoting ethical journalism in French-language media.

4. Collaborations with Public Broadcasters: Given her alignment with public-interest values, partnerships with entities like CBC/Radio-Canada or community radio stations could offer a values-aligned platform.

Whatever path she chooses, one thing is clear: Pettersen’s influence extends far beyond the radio booth. Her decision to leave Cogeco on principle sends a powerful message—that integrity matters, even when it’s inconvenient.

Why This Matters for Canadians

At its core, Geneviève Pettersen’s story is about more than one person leaving a job. It reflects a growing demand for authenticity, accountability, and representation in Canadian media—especially in French-speaking communities where cultural identity is deeply tied to language and local storytelling.

As audiences become more discerning and digital platforms democratize content creation, traditional media outlets face mounting pressure to adapt. Pettersen’s stand reminds us that trust isn’t built through reach alone—it’s earned through consistency, courage, and respect for audience intelligence.

For young journalists, writers, and creators across Canada, her choice offers both inspiration and a roadmap: stay true to your values, even when the cost is high.

And for listeners? It’s a call to support independent voices—because when they speak up, we all listen a little closer.