Paris – June 1, 2026: The significant decline of smoking scenes in French films and series in recent years was considered a success of anti-smoking policies. However, a worrying trend is now being observed. Cigarettes are reappearing on screen and increasingly being used as style accessories among influencers.
This trend is particularly prominent in works aiming to convey a nostalgic atmosphere. Films and series set in or adopting the aesthetics of past decades often feature protagonists who smoke to enhance realism and mood. A representative example is the reboot of the series “Angélique, die Marquise der Engel” set in the 1960s, which recreates the image of a female lead smoking.
Furthermore, influencers with significant reach on social media are gradually using smoking as a means of style. In their posts, cigarettes are often portrayed as symbols of coolness and rebellion, stimulating the desires of young followers. This phenomenon conflicts with public health efforts to reduce tobacco consumption.
The resurgence of smoking on screen and social media raises several questions. In France, about 60,000 people die annually from smoking-related diseases. Despite these alarming figures, tobacco consumption has been on a decline in recent years. However, the increase in smoking appearances in popular culture threatens this trend and may encourage smoking initiation among young people.
Experts warn of the risks of this development. They especially emphasize that depictions of smoking in media can significantly influence adolescent behavior. If smoking is normalized in films and on social media, awareness of the health risks of tobacco consumption may weaken.
Based on these concerns, health experts and politicians are calling for increased public awareness. Strict regulations on smoking depictions in media and enhanced education about the risks of tobacco consumption are needed. Furthermore, efforts are underway to strengthen cooperation among the film industry, social media, and health authorities to minimize the influence of smoking in popular culture.
The return of cigarettes in popular culture is a complex phenomenon with cultural and health implications. It remains to be seen how this trend will develop and what measures will be taken to protect public health.
Overall, it is confirmed that portrayals of smoking in media have a significant impact on societal perceptions and behavior. Therefore, it is important to critically review this trend and take appropriate measures to protect the health of the population.