Paris – 01.06.2026: In recent years, the depiction of smoking in French films and series had significantly declined, which was seen as a success of anti-tobacco policy. But now a troubling trend is emerging: the cigarette is returning to the silver screen and is increasingly used by influencers as a stylistic accessory.
This trend is especially noticeable in productions that aim to evoke a nostalgic atmosphere. Films and series set in earlier decades or adopting this aesthetic often use the image of the smoking protagonist to create authenticity and ambiance. An example of this is the new version of the series “Angélique, the Marquise of the Angels,” which is set in the 1960s and breathes new life into the image of the smoking heroine.
Influencers with a large reach on social media are also using smoking increasingly as a style element. In their posts, the cigarette is often presented as a symbol of coolness and rebellion, which ignites desire among their young followers. This development runs counter to public health efforts to reduce tobacco use.
The return of the cigarette on screen and in social media raises questions. In France, about 60,000 people die each year as a result of smoking. Despite these alarming figures, tobacco use has decreased in recent years. However, the increasing presence of smoking in pop culture could threaten this trend and entice young people to start smoking.
Experts warn of the dangers of this development. They emphasize that the depiction of smoking in the media can have a significant influence on behavior, especially among young people. The normalization of smoking in films and social media could lead to a decrease in awareness of the health risks associated with tobacco use.
Given these concerns, health experts and politicians are calling for increased public awareness. They advocate for stricter regulations regarding the depiction of smoking in the media and for more intensive education about the risks of tobacco use. Strengthened cooperation is also being sought between the film industry, social media, and health authorities to minimize the influence of smoking on pop culture.
The return of the cigarette in pop culture is a complex phenomenon with both cultural and health implications. It remains to be seen how this trend will develop and what measures will be taken to protect public health.
All in all, it appears that the depiction of smoking in the media has a great impact on the perception and behavior of society. It is therefore important to critically examine this trend and take appropriate measures to protect the health of the population.