The Canadian broadcasting and journalism community is mourning the loss of Aline Desjardins, the celebrated Quebec journalist, television presenter, and feminist pioneer who died on Friday, November 13, 2026, at the age of 92. Her passing marks the end of an extraordinary career that helped transform journalism and expand the representation of women in Canadian broadcasting.
Born on August 21, 1934, in Saint-Pascal-de-Kamouraska, Quebec, Desjardins developed a passion for broadcasting at an early age. She began her professional journey in radio before establishing herself as one of the most recognizable female voices in Quebec journalism.
She became particularly famous for hosting Radio-Canada’s influential television program Femme d’aujourd’hui between 1966 and 1979. During her 13 years with the program, she presented nearly 3,000 daily information broadcasts, addressing subjects that were rarely discussed openly on television at the time.
Through her interviews and reporting, Desjardins brought important attention to women’s rights, abortion, domestic violence, incest, and women’s legal rights. Her willingness to discuss difficult social issues helped create opportunities for important conversations about equality and women’s independence.
Her broadcasting career extended beyond Femme d’aujourd’hui. She also contributed to programs including La semaine verte, D’un soleil à l’autre, and Avis de recherche. Across more than four decades, she established herself as a respected journalist, interviewer, and mentor.
Her contributions received significant recognition. In 2024, she received the prestigious Prix René-Lévesque and was appointed an Officer of the National Order of Quebec.
Her friend and agent, Hélène Mailloux, announced her death, remembering her as a woman who opened doors for generations of female journalists.
Aline Desjardins leaves behind an extraordinary legacy in Canadian broadcasting. Her courage, professional dedication, and commitment to women’s rights helped reshape Quebec’s media landscape, ensuring that her influence will continue to be remembered for generations.