On va se le dire: Meaning, TV Show, Cast, and Schedule

You’ve probably heard the French phrase “on va se le dire” in conversation, but it’s also the name of a lively Canadian talk show—this guide unravels both sides, from its literal meaning to how a Quebec television program turned it into a daily ritual for thousands of viewers. By the end, you’ll know exactly what it means and how to watch.

Show Premiere: 2019 ·
Network: ICI Télé (Radio-Canada) ·
Host: Sébastien Diaz ·
Episode Length: 90 minutes ·
Air Days: Monday to Thursday ·
Language: French

The show’s details paint a clear picture: 90‑minute episodes four times a week, hosted by a single anchor, and built around topical discussions. Here is a quick reference of key facts.

What does “on va se le dire” mean?

The phrase “on va se le dire” is a colloquial French expression that literally translates to “we’ll tell each other” or “we’ll say it to each other.” It is often used to introduce a secret, a confession, or a piece of information that the speaker wants to share with a degree of intimacy and confidentiality. The show On va se le dire takes its name directly from this conversational cue, signaling a format built around candid discussion.

Literal translation and usage

Word by word: “on” (we) + “va” (go) + “se le” (to each other it) + “dire” (say). In everyday Quebec French, the phrase acts as a kind of verbal nudge—“let’s be honest” or “I’ll just say it.”

• Example: “On va se le dire, ce film était ennuyant.” – “Let’s be honest, that movie was boring.”

Context in conversation

Speakers use it to lower the conversational barrier before a potentially blunt or personal remark. It creates a shared understanding that what follows is a truthful, sometimes unvarnished opinion.

Difference from similar phrases

Unlike “franchement” (frankly), which simply signals honesty, “on va se le dire” adds a layer of reciprocity—implying both speaker and listener are in on the truth together.

This dual nature—phrase and show—demonstrates how language can travel from casual conversation to branded media.

Who are the guests on On va se le dire today?

The show is hosted by Sébastien Diaz and features a rotating panel of comedians, journalists, and actors who discuss current events. Regular contributors and notable past guests include Pier‑Luc Funk, Anne‑Marie Cadieux, Jean‑Philippe Baril Guérard, Mathieu McKenzie, Noémi Mercier, Tristan Péloquin, and Richard Kelly.

Host Sébastien Diaz

Diaz is the anchor and public face of the program. He guides the conversation, sets the tone, and often brings his own editorial perspective. According to the Prowly Media Database (industry directory), his role is Animateur (Host).

Regular panelists

The show does not have a fixed cast; instead, it relies on a rotating ensemble. This keeps the discussions fresh and allows for a wide range of viewpoints. Researchers Arianne Bouchard and Geneviève Loiselle support the production, as noted in the same Prowly directory.

Notable past guests

• Pier‑Luc Funk (comedian)
• Anne‑Marie Cadieux (actress)
• Jean‑Philippe Baril Guérard (writer)
• Mathieu McKenzie (journalist)
• Noémi Mercier (author)
• Tristan Péloquin (musician)
• Richard Kelly (television host)

The implication: the show deliberately mixes entertainment and journalism, giving viewers both laughs and substance.

How do you say “I love you” in Paris?

The standard French phrase for “I love you” is “Je t’aime.” It is used across all French‑speaking regions, including Paris, with the same romantic and emotional weight as in English. Pronunciation guides from native speakers, such as a video by Julien Moulin, help learners get the intonation right.

Standard translation: “Je t’aime”

“Je t’aime” is the direct translation. The verb “aimer” means to love, and “te” (t’ before a vowel) is the object pronoun “you.”

Regional variations

In France, you might also hear “Je t’adore” for a lighter affection. In Quebec, “Je t’aime” is equally common.

Usage in Parisian context

Parisians use “Je t’aime” in the same way as English speakers—for relationships, family, and close friends. The pronunciation tips from native speakers emphasize the liaison between “t” and “aime” to avoid sounding robotic.

Mastering this phrase is a key step for English speakers learning French cultural expression.

Why do Americans say “je ne sais quoi”?

The phrase “je ne sais quoi” is borrowed directly from French and means “I don’t know what.” It has become a fixed English idiom to describe an indescribable quality—something attractive or appealing that is hard to put into words.

Origin of the phrase

French in origin, the phrase entered English in the 18th century. It retains the French spelling and pronunciation, and English speakers use it as a sophisticated shorthand for charm or allure. According to Dictionary.com (English‑language reference), it is defined as “an indefinable, elusive quality, especially a pleasing one.”

“An indefinable, elusive quality, especially a pleasing one.”

— Dictionary.com

Meaning: “I don’t know what”

Literally: “je” (I), “ne” (not), “sais” (know), “quoi” (what). It expresses the idea that something resists description—a trait, a vibe, an aura.

Adoption in English

Unlike “on va se le dire,” which remains firmly Quebec colloquial, “je ne sais quoi” has been fully naturalized into English. It appears in magazines, reviews, and everyday speech.

The pattern: both phrases travel across languages, but “je ne sais quoi” made the leap centuries ago, while “on va se le dire” is modern and medium‑specific—a TV show tagline that became a brand.

When does On va se le dire air?

The show airs Monday to Thursday at 4 p.m. on ICI Télé, the French‑language service of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. Each episode runs 90 minutes. It is also available on the streaming platform tou.tv. As of winter 2025, the program is listed as a repeat broadcast, indicating it remains part of the daytime schedule but no longer produces new episodes daily.

Broadcast schedule

• Days: Monday through Thursday
• Time: 4 p.m. Eastern Time
• Network: ICI Télé (Radio‑Canada)

The schedule is confirmed by the CBC & Radio‑Canada Media Solutions (official broadcaster sales platform), which lists the show in the daytime block.

Number of episodes

Because the show runs four days a week year‑round (with summer repeats), the total number of episodes produced since 2019 is substantial. Exact counts are not publicly posted, but the format suggests hundreds of installments.

Where to watch

• Live on ICI Télé
• Catch‑up on tou.tv (streaming service of Radio‑Canada)
• Select clips on the show’s social media pages

The catch: despite geoblocking, the show’s social media presence makes highlights accessible globally.

What do the creators say?

“Une émission de 90 minutes d’échanges pertinents et divertissants sur l’actualité du moment animée par Sébastien Diaz.”

— Official description from Radio‑Canada, via CBC & Radio‑Canada Media Solutions (broadcaster platform)

Frequently asked questions

For Francophone viewers in Quebec, On va se le dire is more than a talk show—it’s a daily ritual that transforms a casual phrase into a trusted space for candid conversation. The implication for English speakers curious about the phrase: understanding “on va se le dire” means recognizing that some expressions carry a whole media ecosystem with them. If you’re outside Canada, the trade‑off is clear: seek out clips and reruns, or plan a visit to watch live.