Camping 2 on TF1: 20 Years Later, We Still Use This Iconic Line Created by Franck Dubosc

To celebrate the airing of Camping 2 on TF1 on June 22, let’s take a look at an absolutely legendary line, shouted by Patrick Chirac and now part of everyday language! 20 years later, it remains just as delightful.

In April 2006, France discovered a delicious comedy that would achieve great success, Camping. Directed by Fabien Onteniente, the film attracted 5.4 million viewers to theaters and became a trilogy! In total, the adventures of the colorful campers drew in 12.5 million fans.

The saga owes its success largely to a certain Franck Dubosc, co-writer and performer of the vibrant character, Patrick Chirac! Dressed in his pink tank top and blue swim trunks, this chocolate Benco fan has become an icon of French comedy.

Awkward yet Endearing

Awkward, talkative, and clumsy, this memorable figure from the Flots Bleus campsite is nonetheless endearing due to his good-naturedness, kindness, and naivety. Between 2006 and 2016, he made millions of French people laugh, who enjoy chanting his iconic lines like "Chase the naturist, he comes back to the bungalow" or "You see, freedom is being able to eat grated carrots in the packaging."

However, there is one line that has become Patrick Chirac's trademark and has infected millions of people, to the point of entering everyday language! Franck Dubosc utters it every time he arrives at the campsite driving his iconic Renault 21.

"So, we’re not waiting for Patrick?", he exclaims proudly, leaning on the hood. This line is one we’ve all recited upon arriving at a party that has already started or when friends have begun the aperitif without us!

So, we’re not waiting for Patrick?

Pathé

Dr. Dubosc and Mr. Chirac

Even if one has never seen Camping, the reference is immediately understood! Within a group, it has the merit of breaking the ice and is often synonymous with convivial moments with family or friends.

Inseparable from this popular character, Franck Dubosc is often addressed by his fans through this line. "It makes me very happy. They tell me they have seen all 3 Campings, they love it, and it makes me happy to hear that. I wonder if we need a 4th one to please the people," he confided to Pure People in August 2024.

In the meantime, Franck Dubosc will soon return to the big screen with his new film as a director: 5h48 Place des Martyrs. The story will follow a bus driver who takes his passengers hostage after warning them.