Asia’s video industry is mourning the death of Thomas Jayet, the CEO of Hanoi-based joint venture French/Vietnamese platform, K+ (VSTV). Jayet died in France after a short illness.

In a statement issued today, the CANAL+ Group paid tribute to Jayet, saying "his profound connection to the country and to the teams he worked with was widely recognised, and the collective grief following his passing speaks volumes about his impact".

The Paris-based global operator added that “our thoughts are with his wife, Karine, and their two children during this incredibly difficult time”.

The Group also said that the tributes that had been pouring in reflected "the deep respect and strong bonds Thomas built throughout his career".

Jayet joined the CANAL+ Group in 2013 as Director of B2B Activities at Canal+ Telecom, before being appointed CEO of the company in 2016. In January 2021, he became CEO of K+ (VSTV).

In Asia, industry leaders and partners, including regional streamer Viu and Canal+ Myanmar, paid tribute to Jayet’s contributions and support.

"We are saddened by the loss of a great colleague in the media and entertainment industry. Thomas’ pioneering spirit and energy will be sorely missed by all of us. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and will keep them in our prayers," said Janice Lee, Viu CEO and managing director of PCCW Media Group.

"Thomas was a great partner to AVIA and a strong advocate of the need to protect IP and reduce piracy in Vietnam. We are deeply saddened to lose him," said AVIA CEO, Louis Boswell.