Honourable senators, I rise today with a heavy heart to pay tribute to TV host and cultural journalist Herby Moreau.

Last Sunday night, while Quebecers were busy watching the ADISQ Gala, we learned that Mr. Moreau, nicknamed the “prince of the red carpet,” had passed away.

Writing for La Presse, Hugo Dumas revealed that Mr. Moreau had been battling myeloma, a form of blood cancer, for the past four years.

At age 56, like a comet crossing the sky, this star chaser has left a lasting mark on Quebec culture and on the many international stars he interviewed.

In his 2014 book entitled Glamour et faux pas, available on the Herby.tv website, he revealed the secret to his success with the big stars: Herby Moreau always strived to make them shine in all their glory, rather than burn bridges by gossipmongering. He never stooped to the level of greedy paparazzi.

The words of wisdom he shared in the ending to his book are a lesson for us all: To move forward into the future, we need to know how to look backwards into the past.

As we celebrate Canada’s National Francophone Immigration Week, I would like to point out that Herby Moreau was born in Haiti in 1968 and arrived here in Canada when he was five years old. During the 25 years that he spent travelling across Quebec and internationally, he not only made a deep impression on people behind the screen, but he also served as a positive role model for all viewers of African descent watching popular programs.

My condolences to the family. Mèsi pou heritaj ou kité pour nou! Rest in peace, Mr. Moreau.

Thank you.