Têtu: How France’s stubborn LGBTQIA magazine survived bankruptcy and cultural controversy

Entertainment · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Meaning stubborn in French, Têtu has served as the primary LGBTQIA publication in France since 1995. Despite facing financial collapse, liquidation, and international backlash over cultural appropriation, the magazine has proven remarkably resilient. Its evolution from a print staple to a digital-first platform reflects the shifting landscape of queer media.

Founded in 1995 by Didier Lestrade and Pascal Loubet, Têtu emerged as the successor to the defunct Gai Pied magazine, which had ceased operations in 1992. Historically directed by Pierre Bergé, the publication established itself as a vital voice for the community, covering everything from political interviews and celebrity profiles to reviews of queer-themed literature, cinema, and gaming. Beyond lifestyle and culture, the magazine maintained a serious focus on health, regularly reporting on AIDS prevention and treatment, and periodically issuing a dedicated guide known as Têtu+.

The magazine’s history is marked by significant financial turbulence. In January 2013, Pierre Bergé sold the publication to Jean-Jacques Augier. However, the business struggled, recording losses of €1.1 million in 2014. These mounting debts led to bankruptcy in January 2015 and subsequent liquidation by July of that year. Yet, the brand did not disappear; in November 2015, a French start-up called Idyls acquired the title, transitioning it into an online-only format before eventually returning to print with an issue on 28 February 2017.

Têtu has often navigated complex cultural waters, sometimes drawing international scrutiny. In July 2011, a cover featuring rugby player Alexis Palisson wearing a fake moko and holding a taiaha sparked significant controversy in New Zealand. Māori critics argued the imagery was disrespectful, as the moko traditionally signifies specific iwi affiliation. Palisson was forced to issue an apology, emphasizing his respect for tattoo traditions. Despite such challenges, the magazine has continued its mission, even expanding its reach to cover international figures, such as its 2012 report on the Jordanian publication My.Kali and its spokesperson, Khalid.

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