The studio lit up with joy after about thirty minutes of conversation. While reflecting on his long career, Michel Drucker saw Yleng Kem walk in, whom he thought was on the other side of the world. “I am so happy to see you. I thought you were in Phnom Penh,” he said as he hugged her. For the host of “Vivement Dimanche” on “France 3” who returned after more than a month of absence, the presence of this woman means much more than just a courtesy visit.
“I consider myself to have two daughters”: Michel Drucker talks about his unique connection with Yleng
The story between the host and Yleng Kem began in the late 70s. Placed in foster care at the age of 16 after fleeing horror in her native country, the young girl found refuge with Michel Drucker and his wife Dany. The couple, having a spare room in their apartment, took steps to provide a stable home for a Cambodian girl. “She spent ten years with us,” he specified.
Now, Michel Drucker proudly claims the fatherhood he has exercised towards her for decades. He revealed during the show that he considers himself to have two daughters, Stephanie Jarre and his “little Yleng”. The latter has experienced a rapid social ascension under the couple’s protective wing. Starting from nothing, she has risen to the top of her art through her perseverance. The host never misses an opportunity to highlight that his protege has become an essential figure in her field of expertise.
“She ended up sewing the most beautiful dresses in the world”: Yleng Kem’s success story
The godfather of French television was immensely proud when he discussed Yleng’s career with the world’s top fashion designers. At just 23, she became head of the workshop for the prestigious Pierre Cardin fashion house. “She arrived, she didn’t know much. She ended up sewing the most beautiful dresses in the world for princesses from around the world,” the host explained.
Despite this international success in the luxury industry, Yleng has never forgotten her Cambodian roots. She now devotes much of her energy to the “Padouma” association, which she co-founded to help disadvantaged populations in her home country. Michel Drucker actively supports this project as a sponsor of the organization. This meeting has shed light on a little-known family bond to the public, illustrating a lasting human solidarity that has lasted for over five decades.
