Who is Olivier Legrain, the anti-Bolloré “left-wing” millionaire engaged in the independent press?

In the shadow of the big names in French industry, Olivier Legrain, 72, stands out as a singular figure, often nicknamed the “anti-bolloré”. Similarly, Former CEO of large companies converted into a psychotherapist in Neuilly-sur-Seine. In addition, this discreet entrepreneur contrasts with the media flamboyance of Vincent Bolloré or even Pierre-Édouard Sterin. Furthermore, While the latter want to dominate the media. Nevertheless, logistics with a displayed conservative agenda, the former mining engineer favors a more measured approach, supporting independent media while silenced the Bolloré Empire.

In 2024, he joined the collective “Stop Bolloré” and invest in independent media as Mediapart, Blast, Regards, It just is !, On the days, Economic alternatives et Special. However, His ambition: create a free media house in Paris by the end of 2026. Nevertheless, a space bringing together these editors to who olivier legrain, anti-bolloré “left-wing” guarantee their autonomy in the face of economic pressures, as recalled Inrockuptibles.

A dangerous monopoly of a handful of billionaires – Who olivier legrain, anti-bolloré "left-wing"

The businessman. who was seduced by communist ideas in his youth before becoming an industry magnate, presents himself today as a “therapist” of information. “In France. a handful of billionaires have taken control of almost all sources of information: media, publishing houses, journalism schools,” he wrote in his book Save information from the billionaire grip (Payot, 2025) co-written with Vincent Edin, denouncing a dangerous monopoly for democracy. His funding supports titles committed, such as Political, StreetPress or Reporterrewhich are struggling to survive in an economically fragile sector.

Since July 2025, the millionaire “on the left” has been surprising by investing Tiktok to reach a young audience. His arrival is not trivial. By addressing young people directly. the businessman seeks to raise awareness of the need for a free press, in a context where social networks have become information arenas. However, some criticize his approach, accusing him of promoting a “technocratic” or radical left vision.

Funds for students and migrants

He is not just for funding media. He engages in environmental and educational causes, supporting scholarships for science students and independent cultural projects. In 2019. he also created the Riace France fund and injected who olivier legrain, anti-bolloré “left-wing” three million euros there to support a reception worthy of migrants in France.

His book. videos call for a citizen start to protect freedom of information. “This subject is too important not to express themselves,” he insists, echoing his fight for a press frees financial influences. Legrain thus embodies an alternative to Bolloré: where one built a media empire with a strong ideological connotation. the other focuses on discretion, freedom of press and societal commitments. It remains to be seen whether this “anti-bollored” will be able to transform its discreet influence into a lasting counterweight.