The hit France 3 police procedural OPJ has reached a major turning point. As the explosive season 7 finale airs, viewers are forced to say goodbye not only to a thrilling murder investigation set against the backdrop of La Réunion, but also to one of the show's core characters.
Inside the Season 7 Finale
Titled "Couple moteur," the final episode of season 7 throws investigator Clarissa (played by Yaëlle Trulès) and her team into a complex case involving the murder of a former racing driver and a woman. To add star power to the conclusion, the episode features special guest star Frédérique Bel.
Her appearance marks a fun on-screen reunion with her former Qu'est-ce qu'on a fait au Bon Dieu? co-star, Frédéric Chau, who portrays Captain Nico Chane in the series. However, the joy of the reunion is bittersweet for fans, as this episode officially marks Chau's departure from the show he joined in season 6.
Why Frédéric Chau Is Leaving OPJ
In a candid interview with Télé Star, the actor opened up about his emotional exit. While he praised the high work standards and the human experience on set—calling it one of the best of his career—logistics ultimately forced his hand.
Chau pointed to a packed professional schedule as the primary driver behind his departure. The actor is gearing up to star in a touring theater production of L'Invitation starting in September, returning for the third season of the action-heavy series Pax Massilia, and directing his second feature film—an action project centered on the Foreign Legion.
Balancing Career and Personal Battles
Beyond his booming career, Chau has also been managing significant personal commitments off-screen. The actor has publicly addressed his ongoing legal battle to secure shared custody of his children, advocating for fathers seeking equal parenting time.
As OPJ moves forward into future seasons without Captain Nico Chane, fans are left wishing the actor well as he dives headfirst into his next chapter of stage and screen projects.
