- Catherine Deneuve, born Catherine Fabienne Dorléac, is a revered figure in the world of cinema. Originally from Paris, France, she was born in 1943 into a family deeply rooted in the film industry, with both parents being stage actors and her sister, Françoise Dorléac, also an acclaimed actress. Deneuve's career was initiated at a tender age when she replaced her sister for a role in the film The Twilight Girls in 1957. This marked the starting point of her extensive career spanning over six decades, making her one of the most enduring figures in the French film industry. Deneuve's breakthrough in cinema came with the 1964 musical ‚ The Umbrellas of Cherbourg, which won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. Her performance enthralled audiences and critics alike, firmly establishing her as a serious actress. Throughout the years, Deneuve collaborated with renowned directors such as Roman Polanski, Luis Buñuel, and François Truffaut. Her portrayal of varied roles, from a bourgeois housewife turned prostitute in Belle de Jour, to a vampire in The Hunger, showcased her versatility as an actress. Notably, her work in Indochine earned her an Academy Award nomination, further solidifying her eminence in global cinema. Beyond her acting career, Deneuve has been a prominent figure in humanitarian causes. She has lent her voice to a variety of issues, including mental health, women's rights, and animal welfare. Furthermore, Deneuve's timeless elegance made her an icon in the fashion world, with fashion house Yves Saint Laurent declaring her as their muse. Despite numerous accolades and worldwide recognition, Deneuve has always held a humble perspective towards her success.
- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
- Humphrey Bogart, born on Christmas Day in 1899, was a trailblazer in the world of American cinema and a linchpin of Hollywood's Golden Age. The son of a surgeon and a famed magazine illustrator, Bogart was raised in an affluent household in New York City, which provided him with a privileged upbringing that ultimately didn't satisfy his adventurous spirit. This led him to enlist in the United States Navy during World War I, marking his first departure from societal expectations and foreshadowing his future unconventional career path. Upon his return from the war, Bogart began exploring the performing arts, making his stage debut in 1921. Despite initial struggles, he persevered and gradually carved out a niche for himself within Broadway's thriving theatrical scene. His breakout role came in the form of a menacing gangster in the 1936 film The Petrified Forest, which catapulted him into the limelight and paved the way for a series of iconic performances. It was during this time that Bogart developed what would become his trademark on-screen persona - the tough yet vulnerable antihero, often embroiled in morally ambiguous situations. Bogart's illustrious career spanned three decades and encompassed over seventy-five films, including classics like Casablanca, The Maltese Falcon, and The African Queen, the latter earning him an Academy Award for Best Actor. Despite facing personal challenges such as a tumultuous love life and health issues, Bogart remained unwaveringly dedicated to his craft until his untimely demise from cancer in 1957. His legacy, however, continues to resonate within the entertainment industry, with his distinctive style and indelible performances serving as a testament to his enduring influence on the cinematic landscape.
- Birthplace: New York, New York, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
- Sophia Loren, an Italian film actress and singer, was born as Sofia Villani Scicolone on September 20, 1934, in Rome. Her journey from poverty-stricken beginnings to becoming a globally recognized star is nothing short of a cinematic saga. Loren's career, spanning over seven decades, has been marked by her remarkable versatility and acting prowess that have earned her numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Actress - a first for any actor in a non-English language film. Loren's life story was marked by adversity from the outset. Born to an unwed mother, she spent her early years in war-torn Italy, living in impoverished conditions. However, her striking beauty and raw talent led her to win a beauty pageant at the age of 14, marking the start of her modeling career. After several uncredited roles in Italian films, Loren caught the attention of renowned film producer Carlo Ponti, who later became her husband. Under his guidance, Loren transitioned into acting, making her credited film debut in 1951 with Quo Vadis. Throughout her career, Loren has delivered unforgettable performances in both comedic and dramatic roles, showcasing her wide-ranging talents. Some of her most notable works include Two Women (1960), which won her the Academy Award, Marriage Italian Style (1964), and Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow (1963). Beyond her acting accomplishments, Loren is also known for her singing abilities, having recorded numerous albums and singles. Sophia Loren's resilience, talent, and timeless beauty have cemented her status as one of cinema's greatest icons.
- Birthplace: Rome, Lazio, Italy
- Nationality: Kingdom of Italy, France, Italy
- Max von Sydow, a name indelibly engraved in the annals of film history, is known for his extensive work in both European and American cinema. Born Carl Adolf von Sydow on April 10, 1929, in Lund, Scania, Sweden, he showed an early inclination towards acting. Armed with a degree from the Royal Dramatic Theatre in Stockholm, von Sydow took the entertainment world by storm and managed to carve an impressive career spanning seven decades. Von Sydow's acting prowess was first internationally recognized through his collaborations with legendary Swedish director Ingmar Bergman. Their partnership resulted in iconic films such as The Seventh Seal (1957) and Through a Glass Darkly (1961). His performance as the medieval knight playing chess with Death in The Seventh Seal is particularly noted as one of the most memorable moments in cinematic history. Von Sydow's transition to Hollywood added another layer to his illustrious career. He has worked in many big-budget blockbusters, including The Exorcist (1973), where he played the unforgettable Father Merrin, and Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015), depicting Lor San Tekka. Despite being primarily known for his film roles, Max von Sydow was not limited to the silver screen. He also lent his distinct voice to several animated features and video games, proving his versatility as an artist. Over the course of his expansive career, von Sydow received numerous accolades, including two Academy Award nominations, and left his mark on the global film industry. His passing on March 8, 2020, left a void in the world of cinema. However, the legacy Max von Sydow left behind will continue to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers alike.
- Birthplace: Sweden, Lund
- Nationality: Sweden, France
- Monica Bellucci, a name synonymous with elegance and timeless beauty, is an Italian actress and fashion model recognized worldwide for her illustrious career. Born in the small Italian town of Città di Castello, Umbria in 1964, Bellucci initially pursued a path in law at the University of Perugia but shifted gears to modeling when she moved to Milan and signed with Elite Model Management. Bellucci's transition from modeling to acting was seamless. Her breakthrough role came from playing Lisa in The Apartment (1996), which earned her a nomination for the César Award for Best Supporting Actress. However, it was her roles as Persephone in Matrix Reloaded and Matrix Revolutions, Mary Magdalene in The Passion of the Christ, and Lucia Sciarra in James Bond film Spectre that truly cemented her status as an international star. In addition to being one of Italy's most famous actresses, Monica Bellucci has made significant contributions to global cinema and uses her platform for activism. She has been involved with various charitable organizations throughout her career while also using her voice within the industry to advocate against ageism and sexism. Despite all these achievements under her belt, she remains humble about it all - attributing much of success not just on talent alone but also dedication, persistence, and resilience - qualities that define this extraordinary woman.
- Birthplace: Città di Castello, Umbria, Italy
- Nationality: Italy
- 1Malèna597 Votes
- 2The Matrix Reloaded202 Votes
- 3Tears of the Sun238 Votes
- A cool, innocent-looking leading lady with honey-colored hair and an unflappable, world-weary gaze in her green eyes, Isabelle Huppert made her screen debut at age 16 and had appeared in over 15 films by the age of 21, demonstrating an enviable dramatic range that propelled her into international stardom. Raised as the youngest of five daughters in an affluent family, Huppert announced at age 13 her intention to be an actor. By 1971, she had played her first screen role in Nina Companeez's "Faustine et le Bel Ete." The next year, she was Romy Schneider's younger sister in "Cesar and Rosalie" and made her English-language debut in "Rosebud" (1974), directed by Otto Preminger. Her performance as a madwoman in "Aloise" (also 1974) garnered much praise at the Cannes Film Festival. Not yet 20, Huppert was considered one of France's leading thespians. Her decidedly different turn as a simple provincial heroine, a country girl ruined by a summer romance. in "The Lacemaker" (1977) won her a BAFTA award. The following year, Huppert earned the Best Actress honors at Cannes for her effective portrayal of "Violette," a 1930s French woman who casually killed her father and sensationalized France. The actress found herself in the midst of controversy in 1979 when the insistence by Michael Cimino to cast her as the female lead in "Heaven's Gate" was one of the earlier uproars between the director and the studio in what proved to be one of the biggest box office disasters in Hollywood history. In demand internationally, Huppert never wanted to abandon the film industry in her native land, and when she starred in "Story of Women" for Chabrol in 1988, it was hailed as her French "comeback," earning her some of the best reviews of her career. In 1995, she was again directed by Chabrol in "Le Ceremonie" playing a shy local postmistress in a French village. Huppert starred in "Elective affinities" (1996), which looked at couples swapping, and was a sensuous Madame Curie in "Les Palmes de M. Schutz" (1997). One of her more intriguing roles was as a former nun writing pornography in Hal Hartley's "Amateur" (1994). Huppert has not sought work on TV, but did do the voice of the mistress heard by Ted Danson in the NBC miniseries version of "Gulliver's Travels" (1996). Huppert continued to act steadily in French films for he next several years. Appearing in "La Vie moderne" (1999), "La Fausse suivante" (2000) which was based on Marivaux's play and "Les Destinees sentimentales" (2000) among many others. In 2002, she appeared in "8 Femmes" with Catherine Deneuve and also received a fair amount of attention in the U.S. press with the release of the crime thriller, "Merci pour le chocolat." Her biggest splash in the U.S. followed shortly thereafter when her film "The Piano Teacher" (2002), in which she plays a sexually alienated music instructor who embarks on a dark journey into sado-masochism with a love-struck young man, garnered rave reviews and earned her several critical awards and nominations internationally. She also had a plum role in writer-director David O. Russell's "existential comedy" "I [Heart] Huckabees" (2004) as the nemesis of a pair of existential detectives (Dustin Hoffman and Lily Tomlin) who threatens to bring their confused client (Jason Schwartzman) under her sway. Her lead role in "Gabrielle" (2005) garnered another César nomination, kicking off a period of prolific activity in which she appeared in two to five films per year, including turns in Michael Haneke's "Amour" (2012), Claire Denis' "White Material" (2009), Ned Benson's "The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby" (2013), and Joachim Trier's "Louder Than Bombs" (2015). After years of almost being taken for granted as a screen icon, Huppert garnered international acclaim for her lead role in Paul Verhoeven's psychological revenge thriller "Elle" (2016), which brought the actress her first Academy Award nomination at the age of 63.
- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
- Omar Sharif, born on April 10, 1932, in Alexandria, Egypt, was a legendary film actor known for his captivating performances that spanned across both Hollywood and international cinema. With his striking good looks and potent charm, he carved a niche for himself in the world of cinema, impressing audiences and critics alike with his effortless acting prowess and charisma. Born as Michel Demitri Chalhoub to a wealthy family of Syrian-Lebanese descent, Sharif led a privileged childhood and young adulthood, which included studying at Victoria College, a British-style private school in Alexandria, and later at Cairo University, where he pursued mathematics and physics. Sharif's cinematic journey began in Egypt in the early 1950s, where he quickly rose to stardom with a series of successful films. His breakout role came in 1954 when he starred in the Egyptian drama The Blazing Sun opposite the acclaimed actress Faten Hamama, who later became his wife. The couple was one of the most celebrated duos in Egyptian cinema during the '50s and '60s. However, it was his transition to Hollywood that catapulted Sharif's career to new heights. His debut in English-language cinema came with the critically acclaimed film Lawrence of Arabia in 1962. His portrayal of Sherif Ali in the film earned him two Golden Globe Awards and an Oscar nomination. Sharif continued to enchant audiences with standout roles in several international projects. His portrayal of the titular character in Doctor Zhivago (1965) further solidified his standing as a global movie star. Later, his performance in Funny Girl (1968) opposite Barbra Streisand showcased his versatility as an actor. Beyond his acting career, Sharif was also a renowned bridge player, even writing a syndicated column about the card game in the '70s and '80s. In his later years, despite facing health issues, he continued to act in films and television series, contributing significantly to the cinematic landscape until his death in July 2015. Omar Sharif's legacy continues to be celebrated for his remarkable talent, his transcendent charisma, and his profound impact on global cinema.
- Birthplace: Alexandria, Egypt
- Nationality: France, Egypt
- Alain Delon, a titan of the French cinema scene, made his mark in the world of film through his transformative roles and captivating screen presence. Born on November 8, 1935, in Sceaux, France, Delon initially pursued a career in the military before his undeniable charisma found its true calling in acting. His magnetic appeal resonated with audiences worldwide, earning him an iconic status that remains intact to this day. Stepping into the limelight with films such as Plein Soleil (1960) and Rocco and His Brothers (1960), Delon displayed a unique blend of emotional depth and raw intensity. His performances in these films garnered critical acclaim, setting the stage for a long and distinguished career. A consistent fixture in cinematic masterpieces, Delon worked with renowned directors like Luchino Visconti, Jean-Pierre Melville, and Michelangelo Antonioni. His portrayals of complex characters in films like The Leopard" (1963) further established him as a heavyweight actor of his generation. Delon's influence extended beyond the realm of acting. He ventured into producing and established his own production company, "Adel Productions." Despite facing personal controversies, Delon remained committed to his craft and continued to captivate audiences with his performances. His contribution to cinema was recognized with an honorary Palme d'Or at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival. Alain Delon's life and career encapsulate a fascinating journey of talent, passion, and unwavering dedication to the art of filmmaking.
- Birthplace: Sceaux, France
- Nationality: Switzerland, France
- Kristin Scott Thomas, an internationally celebrated actress, was born on May 24, 1960, in Redruth, Cornwall, England. From a young age, her path seemed to be leading toward the performing arts. Following the tragic death of her father in a plane crash when she was just five years old, and her mother's subsequent remarriage to another pilot who too died in a similar accident six years later, Thomas sought refuge in drama. She studied at the Central School of Speech and Drama in London before moving to France to further her acting education at the École Nationale Supérieure des Arts et Techniques du Théâtre (ENSATT) in Paris. In terms of her career, Thomas, the illustrious actress, started her cinematic journey with French films before making a transition to Hollywood. Her breakthrough role came with the British film Four Weddings and a Funeral in 1994, where her portrayal of the enigmatic Fiona earned her global recognition. This was followed by a string of successful films including The English Patient for which she received an Oscar nomination in 1997, and I've Loved You So Long that won her a BAFTA in 2008. With an acting career spanning over four decades, she has proven her mettle across different genres and languages, such as French and English, winning critical acclaim for her performances in both cinema and theatre. Outside of her acting career, Thomas is known for her humanitarian efforts. She has been an active supporter of various charities, focusing primarily on issues related to health and social inequality. She is also recognized for her involvement in environmental campaigns. Additionally, Thomas has been honored with the distinction of Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 2015, consolidating her status not just as a lauded actress but a valued member of society.
- Birthplace: England, Redruth
- Nationality: France, United Kingdom
1An Unforgettable Summer14 Votes- 2Tell No One13 Votes
- 3I've Loved You So Long31 Votes
- Born in Casablanca, Morocco, on July 30, 1948, Jean Reno is a renowned French actor who has graced both the international and French film industries with his captivating performances. His birth name, Juan Moreno y Herrera-Jiménez, reflects his Spanish descent, though he moved to France at the age of seventeen where he developed his passion for stage acting. Reno's career trajectory is marked by a series of successful collaborations with notable directors such as Luc Besson. Their partnership began in the 1980s, resulting in numerous critically acclaimed films like Le Dernier Combat (1983), Subway (1985), and The Big Blue (1988). However, it was the 1994 hit Léon: The Professional that catapulted Reno into global stardom. His portrayal of Léon, a professional hitman, showcased his ability to deliver complex performances, thus earning him widespread recognition. In addition to his collaborations with Besson, Reno's extensive filmography includes an array of diverse roles. He demonstrated his comedic skills in French films like Les Visiteurs (1993) and its sequel, while also proving his versatility in Hollywood blockbusters such as Mission: Impossible (1996), Godzilla (1998), and The Da Vinci Code (2006). Throughout his career, Reno's performances have been characterized by their depth, authenticity, and originality, thereby solidifying his reputation as one of the most respected actors in the film industry.
- Birthplace: Casablanca, French Protectorate of Morocco
- Nationality: France, Spain
- 1Léon: The Professional236 Votes
- 2The Big Blue60 Votes
- 3Ronin96 Votes
- Gérard Depardieu, a name synonymous with French cinema, is an indisputable legend in the world of acting. Born on December 27, 1948, in Châteauroux, France, Depardieu's journey from being a petty thief to one of the most celebrated actors worldwide is nothing short of a cinematic tale itself. He grew up in a modest family; his father was a metal worker and mother, a homemaker. A rebel, he left home at the age of 16, moving to Paris where he began acting in plays and small time films. Depardieu first started attracting attention in the late 60s and early 70s with roles in movies such as Les Valseuses (1974). However, it was his performance in 1900 (1976), directed by Bernardo Bertolucci, that catapulted him to international fame. His strength lies in the raw emotion he brings to his characters, which has established him as a versatile actor capable of diverse roles. From comedies like La Chèvre (1981) to intense dramas such as Jean de Florette (1986) and Cyrano de Bergerac (1990), for which he received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor, Depardieu has displayed a wide acting range. Off-screen, Depardieu is known for his love for fine wines. He owns vineyards in several countries, including France, Italy, and Argentina. He has also made headlines for his run-ins with law and decision to renounce his French citizenship over tax disputes, subsequently obtaining Russian citizenship.
- Birthplace: Châteauroux, France
- Nationality: France, Russia
- Inimitably charming, witty and sophisticated star of American films from the start of talkies till the mid-1950s, and later a most welcome presence on the stage and in occasional TV. Born in Paris, Claudette Colbert moved to New York when her banker father encountered financial setbacks. Initially intending to become a commercial artist, she studied with speech teacher Alice Rossetter to overcome a slight lisp. Rossetter encouraged Colbert to audition for a play she had just written, "The Widow's Veil" (1919), and so one of the most durable careers in show business began with an appearance as an Irish bride (complete with red wig and brogue).
- Birthplace: Saint-Mandé, Val-de-Marne, France
- Nationality: France, United States of America
- Born on September 28, 1934, in Paris, France, Brigitte Bardot emerged as a radiant star in the world of entertainment. Known for her beauty and talent, she began her career as a ballet dancer before transitioning into modeling. This early exposure to the world of glamour fueled Bardot's ambition and propelled her into the realm of acting, where she achieved unprecedented fame and success. Bardot debuted on the silver screen with Le Trou Normand in 1952, but it was her role in And God Created Woman (1956) that catapulted her to international stardom. She became an icon of the French New Wave cinema, known for her raw sensuality and daring performances. Over the course of her career, Bardot appeared in more than 40 films, working with some of the most acclaimed directors of the era. Her portrayals of liberated women defined her persona and made her a symbol of female emancipation. After retiring from the film industry in 1973, Bardot dedicated her life to animal advocacy, establishing the Brigitte Bardot Foundation for the Welfare and Protection of Animals. Her passion for animal rights has been as influential as her film career, bringing global attention to issues like animal cruelty and environmental conservation. Bardot's multifaceted personality, encompassing both the glitz of showbiz and the grit of activism, makes her a compelling figure whose impact extends beyond the realm of cinema.
- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
- Juliette Binoche, an internationally celebrated actress hailing from Paris, France, has crafted a prolific and versatile career in film, theatre, and television. Born on 9th March 1964, the French starlet, often referred to as 'La Binoche', harbored a deep interest in acting from a tender age. She enrolled in the Conservatoire National Supérieur d'Art Dramatique, France's national drama academy, proving her commitment towards honing her skills from the early stages. Binoche's breakthrough role came in 1985 when she starred in André Téchiné's Rendez-vous. Her compelling performance paved the way for a string of critically acclaimed films that followed. She further fortified her status as a global acting powerhouse by becoming the first actress ever to win the 'Best Actress' awards at Cannes, Venice, and Berlin film festivals. Her display of raw emotion and captivating performances in films such as Three Colors: Blue and The English Patient have etched her name in cinematic history. For The English Patient" she received an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, making her one of the few French actors to have won this prestigious award. Despite her substantial successes in film, Binoche's passion for theater remained unabated. Making a seamless transition between screen and stage, she showcased her versatility in notable productions like Naked and In-I. Besides acting, she also explored other forms of artistic expression, including painting and dance. In addition to her acting accolades, Binoche was honored with France's highest cultural honor, the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres. Juliette Binoche's impactful journey through diverse roles and mediums has established her as a timeless icon in the world of performing arts.
- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
- 1Chocolat63 Votes
- 2Three Colors: Blue42 Votes
- 3The English Patient45 Votes
- Marion Cotillard, an internationally acclaimed actress, was born on September 30, 1975, in Paris, France. Her early life was steeped in the world of performing arts, with both parents involved in acting and theatre. This exposure to the arts led Cotillard to pursue acting at a young age, and she began her career in theater before transitioning to film and television. Cotillard's role in the French film La Vie en Rose marked a significant turning point in her career. Her remarkable portrayal of the legendary French singer Edith Piaf earned her widespread recognition and critical acclaim. In addition to winning the Academy Award for Best Actress, she also received a BAFTA Award, a Golden Globe, and a César Award for her performance. This made Cotillard the first and only actor to win an Academy Award for a performance in the French language, firmly establishing her as a formidable talent in the international film industry. Beyond her success in La Vie en Rose, Cotillard has demonstrated her versatility and range in numerous films across different genres. She has worked with renowned directors such as Christopher Nolan in Inception and The Dark Knight Rises, and Woody Allen in Midnight in Paris. Moreover, her commitment to environmental activism sets her apart from her peers. She is a spokesperson for Greenpeace and has used her platform to raise awareness about climate change and environmental conservation. Marion Cotillard's journey from a young French actress to an internationally recognized star serves as an inspiration to many aspiring actors worldwide.
- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
- Louis Jourdan (born Louis Robert Gendre; 19 June 1921 – 14 February 2015) was a French film and television actor. He was known for his suave roles in several Hollywood films, including Alfred Hitchcock's The Paradine Case (1947), Letter from an Unknown Woman (1948), Gigi (1958), The Best of Everything (1959), The V.I.P.s (1963) and Octopussy (1983). He played Dracula in the 1977 BBC television production Count Dracula.
- Birthplace: France, Marseille
- Nationality: France
- Adolphe Menjou, an iconic figure in the film industry, was a man that epitomized Hollywood's Golden Age. Born on February 18, 1890, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, he was an American actor recognized for his distinctive style and persona on and off the screen. His journey into the world of cinema began after he graduated from Cornell University with a degree in engineering, a path that quickly morphed into pursuing a career in acting after a brief stint on Broadway. Menjou's acting career spanned both silent and sound films, which is a testament to his adaptability and immense talent. He made his debut in silent movies in 1914, but it was not until his role in The Sheik in 1921 that he shot to stardom. The actor's fame continued to grow with his unforgettable performances in classics like A Woman of Paris in 1923. When the era of talkies arrived, Menjou transitioned seamlessly, featuring in successful films such as The Front Page (1931), for which he received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Off-screen, Menjou had a reputation as a dapper gentleman. Known for his impeccable dress sense, he was often voted as one of the best-dressed men in America. He penned his autobiography titled It Took Nine Tailors in 1948, which gave readers an insight into his life and career. Despite his success and popularity, Menjou's personal life was marked by controversy; his outspoken anti-communist views during the McCarthy era led to widespread criticism. Adolphe Menjou passed away on October 29, 1963, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of actors.
- Birthplace: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
- Yves Henri Donat Mathieu-Saint-Laurent (French: [iv sɛ̃ lɔʁɑ̃]; 1 August 1936 – 1 June 2008), professionally known as Yves Saint-Laurent, was a French fashion designer who, in 1961, founded his eponymous fashion label. He is regarded as being among the foremost fashion designers in the twentieth century. In 1985, Caroline Rennolds Milbank wrote, "The most consistently celebrated and influential designer of the past twenty-five years, Yves Saint Laurent can be credited with both spurring the couture's rise from its 1960s ashes and with finally rendering ready-to-wear reputable." He was able to adapt his style to accommodate the changes in fashion during that period. He approached fashion in a different perspective by wanting women to look comfortable yet elegant at the same time. He is also credited with having introduced the tuxedo suit for women and was known for his use of non-European cultural references, and non-white models.
- Birthplace: Oran, Algeria
- Nationality: France
- Christopher Reeve, a man of many talents, was an American actor, director, and activist who left a legacy in the world of entertainment and beyond. He was born on September 25, 1952, in New York City. Reeve's acting career began at a young age when he joined the theater scene in his hometown. His passion for performing arts led him to study at Cornell University and then at the renowned Juilliard School in New York. He made his Broadway debut in 1976, but it was his role as Clark Kent/Superman in the 1978 film Superman that catapulted him into international stardom. Reeve's portrayal of Superman was so convincing and enduring that it continues to define the character in popular culture. However, his acting repertoire extended far beyond this iconic role. He appeared in over forty films and television shows, demonstrating his versatile acting skills. In addition to his acting career, Reeve also directed several films and television episodes, showcasing his comprehensive understanding of the entertainment industry. Beyond the silver screen, Reeve was known for his tireless activism following a horse-riding accident in 1995 that left him paralyzed from the neck down. He co-founded the Reeve-Irvine Research Center, which is dedicated to advancing spinal cord injury research. He also established the Christopher Reeve Foundation (now the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation), which is committed to finding treatments and cures for paralysis caused by spinal cord injury. Despite the challenges he faced, Reeve remained an outspoken advocate for people with disabilities until his death in October 2004. His legacy continues to inspire millions around the world, both in the realm of entertainment and in the fight against paralysis.
- Birthplace: New York, New York, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
- With his dark good looks and resonant, deeply accented murmur, Charles Boyer personified European romance in his native France and Hollywood for over four decades in such films as "Algiers" (1938), "All This, And Heaven Too" (1941) and "Gaslight" (1944). Though a studious, retiring figure off-screen, Boyer left female moviegoers swooning in the 1930s and 1940s, earning him four Oscar nominations as dashing, boundlessly erotic men whose lives, spent either in pursuit of crime, fortune or royalty, made them unavailable to the women who fell hopelessly in love with him. He stepped gracefully into character roles in the 1950s, scoring a triumph on Broadway with "Don Juan in Hell" (1951) and moving into production as a co-owner of the successful television company Four Star Pictures. He remained active as a symbol of old Hollywood courtliness throughout the 1960s, earning a final Oscar nod for "Fanny" (1961) before retiring to care for his wife in the late 1970s. Her death in 1978 spurred the grief-stricken actor to take his own life that same year, forever enmeshing his life with his screen image as the tragic lover whose tremendous heart was his greatest burden.
- Birthplace: Figeac, Lot, Midi-Pyrénées, France
- Nationality: France, United States of America
- Julia Louis-Dreyfus, born in 1961 in New York City, paved her way to stardom with her exceptional acting prowess and comedic timing. The daughter of billionaire Gerard Louis-Dreyfus, she was raised in a world of wealth and privilege, but carved out a niche for herself in the entertainment industry based on talent and determination rather than family connections. A graduate of Northwestern University, Julia caught the attention of the comedy world as a cast member of Chicago's prestigious Second City improv troupe. Louis-Dreyfus' breakthrough came in 1982 when she was cast in NBC's Saturday Night Live, becoming one of the youngest female cast members in the history of the show. However, it wasn't until her role as Elaine Benes on Seinfeld that she truly made her mark on the television landscape. Her performance earned her critical acclaim and established her as a leading lady of comedy. Following Seinfeld, she continued to demonstrate her versatility by taking on different roles in shows like The New Adventures of Old Christine and HBO's Veep, earning multiple Emmys along the way. Throughout her career, Louis-Dreyfus has shown an ability to deftly balance humor and heart, making her one of the most respected and admired actresses of her generation. Her legacy is not just marked by her numerous awards and accolades, but also by her influence on future comedians and her contributions to the field of television comedy.
- Birthplace: New York, New York, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
- French actress Audrey Tautou hit the international spotlight in 2001 as the star of the whimsical Parisian romance "Amélie" (2001), which went on to become the top-grossing French-language film ever released in the United States. With her wide eyes and shy, winsome smile, the brunette gamine instantly earned comparisons to Audrey Hepburn, and like Hepburn, she successfully built a film career alternating between light romantic comedies and teary dramas. Many of Tautou's popular French films did not make it to U.S. theaters, however following the art house success of "Amélie" and the World War I-set romantic drama "A Very Long Engagement" (2004), Tautou answered the call of Hollywood, co-starring opposite Tom Hanks in the blockbuster thriller "The Da Vinci Code" (2006). Tautou's experience in an overblown, critically reviled hit failed to draw her to American filmmaking, so she promptly returned to the French fold where a starring role as design icon Coco Chanel in "Coco Before Chanel" (2009) proved that the actress had a whole career of increasingly mature roles ahead of her once her quirky, youthful charm had run its course.
- Birthplace: Beaumont, Puy-de-Dôme, France
- Nationality: France
- Often compared to a young Robert De Niro or Jean-Paul Belmondo, French actor Vincent Cassel earned acclaim for his intense portrayals of men struggling to contain the violence that seethed within them. The son of successful film actor Jean-Pierre Cassel, Vincent ignored his father's advice and pursued a career in acting. Early breakout performances in such films as "La Haine" (1995) and "L'Apartement" (1996) made him a rising star in French cinema. While bloody actioners like "Dobermann" (1997) positioned Cassel as a popular genre star in Europe, he was more often seen as a full-fledged villain by American audiences in international hits like "Brotherhood of the Wolf" (2001). Never one to shy away from the risqué, Cassel and wife Monica Bellucci co-starred in one of the most controversial films of the decade, "Irreversible" (2003), a profoundly disturbing drama of rape, revenge and guilt. In the States, however, he was mostly seen in less gut-wrenching fare like "Ocean's 12" (2004) until director David Cronenberg turned him loose as a volatile gangster in the acclaimed crime-drama "Eastern Promises" (2007). His biggest hits were still to come on both shores, when the two-part crime epic "Mesrine: Killer Instinct" (2008) and "Mesrine: Public Enemy No. 1" (2008) won Cassel a coveted César Award and director Darren Aronofsky's "Black Swan" (2010) gave him his broadest stateside exposure to date. As one of the most respected international stars of his day, Cassel enjoyed a truly remarkable film career both at home and abroad.
- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
- Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part IFrench actress Clémence Poesy first rose to international fame when she joined the film world of "Harry Potter" and cemented her standing with her work on "The Tunnel" (Sky Atlantic, 2013-). Born in Paris, she began acting in small parts as a child with her father, actor/writer Etienne Guichard. As a teenager, she earned roles on French television in the series "Un homme en colere" (1997-2002) and "Les Monos" (1999-2005). She made her English language debut playing Mary, Queen of Scots in the miniseries "Gunpowder, Treason & Plot" (BBC, 2004). Her profile took a major leap forward when she was cast in "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" (2005). Poesy played Fleur Delacour, one of the contestants opposite Daniel Radcliffe and Robert Pattinson in the film's Triwizard Tournament. She then appeared with Bill Pullman and Natascha McElhone in the mini-series "Revelations" (NBC, 2005). She starred in the French films "Le grand Meaulnes" (2006) and "Sans moi" (2007), before playing Natasha Romanov in the international mini-series "War and Peace" (2007). She returned to English-language projects with a role in the Golden Globe-winning "In Bruges" (2008), with Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson. She then appeared in the James Franco drama "127 Hours" (2010), before making her U.S. television debut with a guest arc on "Gossip Girl" (The CW, 2007-12). She returned to Harry Potter once again, reprising her role of Fleur in the film series final two films, "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows, Part 1" (2010) and "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows, Part 2" (2011). After appearing opposite Eddie Redmayne in the TV mini-series "Birdsong" (BBC, 2012), she began her most acclaimed role when she was cast as the female lead in the crime drama "The Tunnel" (Sky Atlantic, 2013-). Her role as French police detective Elise Wasserman, who partners with Stephen Dillane's British detective to solve crimes, garnered her international raves. Poesy returned to the big screen starring in the French comedy "Two Is a Family" (2016) and Stanley Tucci's "Final Portrait" (2017), alongside Armie Hammer and Geoffrey Rush. She then joined Antonio Banderas in the second season of "Genius" (National Geographic, 2017-) playing French painter/author Françoise Gilot, one of Pablo Picasso's many love interests.
- Birthplace: Meudon, Hauts-de-Seine, France
- Nationality: France
- JoJo, born Joanna Noëlle Levesque on December 20, 1990, is a multi-talented American artist known for her vocal prowess and versatility in the entertainment industry. Raised in Foxborough, Massachusetts, JoJo demonstrated an early passion for music and performance, which led to her signing with Blackground Records at the tender age of twelve. She quickly gained recognition with her debut single "Leave (Get Out)" in 2004, which not only topped the Billboard Pop Songs chart but also earned her the distinction of being the youngest solo artist to have a number-one single in the United States. JoJo's career trajectory was not without its challenges. Following the success of her first two albums, JoJo in 2004 and The High Road in 2006, she found herself embroiled in a protracted legal battle with her record label that prevented her from releasing new music for nearly a decade. Despite this setback, she used this period to hone her songwriting skills and explore her artistic identity. In 2014, she won her freedom from the record label and immediately signed with Atlantic Records, marking a new chapter in her career. In the subsequent years, JoJo went on to release multiple successful albums including Mad Love in 2016 and Good to Know in 2020, both of which received critical acclaim for their mature themes and JoJo's vocal performances. Apart from her singing career, JoJo has also showcased her acting chops in several TV shows and films such as Aquamarine and RV. Her journey underlines her determination, resilience, and sheer talent, making her a compelling figure in contemporary pop culture.
- Birthplace: Vermont, USA, Brattleboro
- Nationality: American
- Sensual, intelligent leading lady who first earned international attention with her role in the Visconti-directed episode of "Boccaccio '70" (1962). Schneider has become something of a fixture in Claude Sautet's studies of French middle-class life; she has also appeared in films by Orson Welles ("The Trial" 1963), Clive Donner ("What's New, Pussycat?" 1965), Joseph Losey ("The Assassination of Trotsky" 1972) and Bertrand Tavernier (the underrated "Death Watch" 1979). Daughter of actors Wolf Albach-Retty and Magda Schneider, both born in 1908.
- Birthplace: Vienna, Austria
- Nationality: France, Germany
- This handsome Turkish-born actor is one of France's most popular stage and screen stars, but his vehicles do not always arrive on US shores. Karyo grew up in Paris, studied acting and by the late 1970s was appearing with the Daniel Sorano Company and the National Theatre of Strasbourg, in both modern and classical roles. He made his film debut in a supporting role in "The Return of Martin Guerre" (1982), and spent the next few years working his way up to leading roles in such films as "La Balance" (a 1982 detective film), "Le Marginal" (with Jean-Paul Belmondo, 1983), "L'Unique" (a 1985 sci-fi outing), "Le Moine et al Sorciere" (starring in this 1987 historical drama) and "The Bear" (as the dashing but easily-frightened young hunter in this 1988 outdoors epic).
- Birthplace: Istanbul, Turkey
- Nationality: France, Turkey
- This lanky, versatile blond award-winning stage actor first gained notice in films as part of Robert Altman's stock company in the 1970s, most notably as the ornithology lecturer who becomes increasingly bird-like in "Brewster McCloud" (1970). Usually cast in offbeat, if a bit snooty, character roles, Rene Auberjonois was featured on the TV series "Benson" (ABC, 1980-86), as Clayton Endicott III, the governor's officious chief aide. He has attracted the notice of faithful legions of Trekkers as Odo, an enigmatic shape-shifting alien who serves as the space station security chief on "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine" (syndicated, 1993-99). Despite the constraints of heavy makeup, the actor was able to create one of "Trek's" most complex character using little more than his voice and his eyes, playing Odo as a stern, cynical, discplined lawman with the heart of a romantic hidden underneath. The New York native graduated from Carnegie-Mellon and studied under John Houseman at the American Shakespeare Festival in Stratford, Connecticut. He also furthered his training as a company member of the Arena Stage and at the prestigious American Conservatory Theatre in San Francisco. In 1968, he made his NYC stage debut as the Fool in "King Lear" and within two years had won a Tony Award supporting Katharine Hepburn in the musical "Coco" (1970). Despite achieving success in TV, Auberjonois has periodically returned to Broadway, usually netting a Tony nomination for his work, as in Neil Simon's "The Good Doctor" (1973), paired with Bob Gunton as the Duke and the King in "Big River" (1985), Roger Miller's musicalization of "Huckleberry Finn," and more recently, as the studio chief modeled on Samuel Goldwyn in the Tony-winning "City of Angels" (1989-90). On the big screen, Auberjonois debuted in Robert Rossen's "Lilith" (1964) before joining Altman in a series of films that has included "M*A*S*H" (1970), "McCabe & Mrs. Miller" (1971), and "The Player" (1992). He cast in the all-star disaster film "The Hindenburg" (1975), as Burgess Meredith's traveling companion. Other film roles of note include a foppish appearance in "Police Academy 5: Assignment Miami Beach" (1988), as Dr. Burton in "Batman Forever" (1995), and as Prof. Artemus Bradford in the live-action feature "Inspector Gadget" (1999). The small screen has also provided a wide range of roles for the gifted actor. In 1971, he made a guest appearance in an episode of "Night Gallery" before landing a supporting role in "Once Upon a Dead Man" (NBC), the TV-movie pilot for "McMillan and Wife." Auberjonois played Edgar to James Earl Jones' "King Lear" (PBS, 1974) and made his miniseries debut in "The Rhinemann Exchange" (NBC, 1977). He played the very formal Captain Sir David Edney in two "The Wild Wild West" (CBS) reunion TV-movies in 1979 and 1980 and earned an Emmy nod as the famous Washington Irving character Ichabod Crane in "Once Upon a Midnight Dreary" (CBS, 1979). Other notable appearances have included as Merlin in "A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur Court" (NBC, 1989) and as a gay man in "The Lost Language of Cranes" (PBS, 1991). Post-"Deep Space Nine," Auberjonois' credits included a recurring role on the CBS drama "Judging Amy" as Judge Jackson Keeler; a guest spot as a human character on a 2002 episode of UPN's "Trek" spin-off series "Enterprise"; a turn as James Callender in the specualtive historical telepic based on Thomas Jefferson's relationship with a female slave, "Sally Hemings: An American Scandal" (2000); portraying Prof. Buonragazzo in Disney's live-action musical TV production of "Geppetto" (ABC, 2000) opposite Drew Carey and "Trek" regular Brent Spiner; and playing a reverend in Roland Emmerich's American Revolution drama "The Patriot" (2000) opposite Mel Gibson and a pastor in the dark, generational comedy "Eulogy" (2004). The actor returned to series television on David E. Kelley's law drama "Boston Legal" (ABC, 2004 - ) in a recurring role as the wary legal ace Paul Lewiston, this time co-starring opposite "Trek" legend William Shatner. Auberjonois has also become a specialist in voice work for animation, starting with the voice of the evil Dr. Braxis in 1985's syndicated "Challenge of the GoBots." He is perhaps best recalled as the French cook Louis in the big screen "The Little Mermaid" (1989) and Professor Genius in "Little Nemo: Adventures in Slumberland" (1990). His other regular TV voices have included Nefir Hassanuf on the Saturday morning version of "Aladdin" and his other credits include "The Adventures of Batman & Robin," "Justice League," "Richie Rich," "The Savage Dragon," "The Legend of Tarzan" and several video games, including voicing Odo for various "Star Trek" products. Auberjonois and his son Remy-Luc, appeared in a memorable 1988 episode of NBC's "L.A. Law," in which Remy portrayed the neglected progeny of a busy corporate executive who sued his father for abuse in an attempt to gain some attention. His daughter Tessa is also an actress. Rene Auberjonois died of lung cancer on December 8, 2019. He was 79.
- Birthplace: New York, New York, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
- Urbane Franco-Italian performer, on stage from the late 1940s and in routine screen character roles through the 50s. Michel Piccoli gained prominence in the following decades with roles as sophisticated bourgeois types in films by Bunuel, Hitchcock and Chabrol. He has since cemented his reputation as one of France's most prolific and acclaimed performers, working through the 1990s with directors including Bertrand Tavernier ("Spoiled Children" 1977), Louis Malle ("Atlantic City" 1980) and Leos Carax ("Bad Blood" 1986). Michel Piccoli died on May 18, 2020 at the age of 94.
- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
- Though French actress Emmanuelle Béart claimed a César award for 1987's "Manon of the Spring" and an additional seven nominations between 1985 and 2001, she frequently drew more acclaim for her striking beauty and sensual screen presence. Béart made her screen debut as an adolescent in 1976, but did not truly pursue her craft until meeting Robert Altman during a visit to Canada. She soon returned to France, where she earned her César for "Manon" and began her screen career in earnest. Béart's comeliness would frequently prove a stumbling block in her pursuit of quality roles; more often than not, she took roles in minor films that hinged on her face and body. However, by 2001, she had amassed numerous César nominations and critically acclaim for emotionally intense turns in "Un Coeur en Hiver" ("The Heart in Winter") (1992) and "Nelly and Mr. Arnaud" (1995). Béart's commitment to French cinema sacrificed her chances at American stardom, but left the international film community with an exceptional body of work over the course of nearly four decades, which cemented her standing as one of France's most accomplished actresses.
- Birthplace: Gassin, France
- Nationality: France
- Creighton Tull Chaney (February 10, 1906 – July 12, 1973), known by his stage name Lon Chaney Jr., was an American actor known for playing Larry Talbot in the film The Wolf Man (1941) and its various crossovers, Count Alucard (Dracula spelled backward), Frankenstein's monster in The Ghost of Frankenstein (1942), the Mummy in three pictures, and various other roles in many Universal horror films. He also portrayed Lennie Small in Of Mice and Men (1939) and supporting parts in dozens of mainstream movies. Originally referenced in films as Creighton Chaney, he was later credited as "Lon Chaney, Jr." in 1935, and after Man Made Monster (1941), beginning as early as The Wolf Man later that same year, he was almost always billed under his more famous father's name as Lon Chaney. Chaney had English, French, and Irish ancestry, and his career in movies and television spanned four decades, from 1931 to 1971.
- Birthplace: USA, Oklahoma, Oklahoma City
- Nationality: United States of America
- A highly respected character actor for over five decades, Michael Lonsdale was an understated but consistently believable presence in European films, as well as Hollywood efforts lensed there, including "The Bride Wore Black" (1966), "The Day of the Jackal" (1973), "Moonraker" (1979)" and "Of Gods and Men" (2010). His quiet but forceful presence frequently led to him being cast as religious figures, like the Benedictine abbot in "The Name of the Rose" (1986) and the philosophical monk in "Gods and Men," but he also essayed his share of lawyers, businessmen, government officials and a few royals, to which he brought carefully measured layers of humanity. Lonsdale's success in Europe attracted the attention of Hollywood, but save for a few studio pictures like the James Bond adventure "Moonraker," he assiduously avoided American features in favor of continental fare. He grew busier as he grew older, yielding greater acclaim and awards, including a Cesar for "Of Gods and Men" in his eighth decade. Lonsdale's commitment to his art, and the sheer quantity of exceptional performances to his name, made him one of Europe's most well regarded players.
- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
- Odette Annable, born as Odette Juliette Yustman on May 10, 1985, stands as a testament to the versatility and vibrancy of Hollywood. With her roots in Los Angeles, California, she was destined for the world of entertainment from an early age. A multitalented personality, she has made her mark not only in acting but also in modeling, proving her mettle in both fields with her indubitable talent and charisma. Annable's journey into the film industry was far from ordinary. At just five years old, she made her acting debut in the 1990 film Kindergarten Cop as Rosa. However, it was in 2007 that she got her breakthrough role in the horror film Cloverfield, which catapulted her into the limelight. From then on, she starred in several notable films and TV series, including You Again, House, and Supergirl, showcasing her ability to take on diverse roles with ease and conviction. Despite her success on screen, Annable remained grounded, attributing her achievements to her strong work ethic and dedication. She married her fellow actor Dave Annable in 2010 and together they have a daughter, further enriching her life beyond the silver screen.
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
- An unconventional beauty who specialized in waif-like roles in her early career, Leslie Caron was an actress and dancer who rose to fame in the 1950s in such acclaimed musicals as "An American in Paris" (1951) and "Gigi" (1958). Caron also projected considerable warmth and charm in straight dramas, which led to a successful career outside of musicals, including Oscar-nominated turns in "Gaby" (1958) and "The L-Shaped Room" (1963). Her Hollywood star faded somewhat in the late 1960s and 1970s, though she was active in European productions, where she was well utilized as elegant older women. Caron was still active in the 1990s and early 2000s, enjoying substantive roles in several well-regarded films, including "Damage" (1993), "Chocolat" (2000) and one of the final Merchant-Ivory productions, "Le Divorce" (2003). Her effortless class and grace, both onscreen and off, especially in the face of a high-profile divorce case in 1965, were at the center of her enduring popularity.
- Birthplace: Boulogne-Billancourt, Seine, France
- Nationality: France, United States of America
- 1Gigi61 Votes
- 2An American in Paris47 Votes
- 3The L-Shaped Room41 Votes
- Isabelle Yasmina Adjani was born on June 27, 1955 in Paris, France. She made her feature film debut at the young age of 14, appearing in the film "Le Petit Bougnat" (1970). Afterwards, she reallocated her ambitions toward the stage, performing at the state theatre the Comédie-Française beginning in 1972, though returned to the screen before long. Around this time, she began studying at University of Vincennes. Soon enough Adjani caught the attention of thriving filmmaker François Truffaut and earned a role in "The Story of Adele H." (1975), for which she was nominated for her first Oscar. From then on, Adjani worked on a series of films by big name directors, including Roman Polanski's "The Tenant" (1976), Werner Herzog's "Nasferatu the Vampyre" (1979), and James Ivory's "Quartet" (1981). The '80s saw further upswing in Adjani's critical esteem; she won the César Award for her performance in "Possession" (1981), "L'été meurtrier" (1983), and "Camille Claudel" (1988). Shortly afterward, she began a relationship with acclaimed actor Daniel Day-Lewis. She went on to win another César in "La reine Margot" (1994) for her performance as the titular French royal, and one more 14 years later for the drama "La journée de la jupe" (2008), making her the first actress ever to win five César Awards.
- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
Denis Podalydès
The Da Vinci Code, Caché, The Children of the CenturyA wiry and diminutive French character actor with large, expressive eyes, Denis Podalydès spent much of his prolific career traversing the fringes of indie cinema before snagging several major film roles. Originally hailing from the stage, where he's since become a time-honored member of the vaunted Comédie-Française, he jumped headlong into films in the late 1980s and became a peripheral fixture of the subsequent two decades' influx of hip and sometimes outré French relationship comedies. In addition to appearing in the ensembles of films such as the tapestried love story "My Sex Life... or How I Got Into an Argument," he's delivered several endearing if little-seen lead performances in quirky character studies directed by his brother, Bruno Podalydès, including the comedy of romantic indecisiveness "Only God Sees Me." His profile was raised considerably, however, when he co-starred as a wounded soldier in the lyrically haunting "The Officer's Ward" and as a freewheeling 1940s-era screenwriter in the exceptionally insightful "Safe Conduct" (2002). The two critically acclaimed wartime dramas paved the way for supporting parts in such international crossover smashes as the crackerjack domestic thriller "Caché" and the mystery-shrouded American adventure "The Da Vinci Code" ('06). Ever since, Podalydès has worked at an incredible rate of several films per year, continuing to crop up in dozens of offbeat love stories while garnering starring roles in such ambitious projects as "The Conquest," a probing examination of French president Nicolas Sarkozy's rise to power.- Birthplace: Versailles, France
- Nationality: France
- Maggie Q, born as Margaret Denise Quigley, is an American actress and model, renowned for her roles in high-octane action films and television series. Born on May 22, 1979 in Honolulu, Hawaii, she dropped out of school to commence a modelling career in Tokyo at the tender age of 17. Her ethnic background, a mix of Vietnamese, Polish and Irish descent, gave her a unique appeal in the modelling world, opening doors to opportunities that eventually led her to Hong Kong. In Hong Kong, Maggie Q was introduced to Jackie Chan, who, impressed by her athletic abilities, took her under his wing and trained her in martial arts. This marked the turning point in her career, as she transitioned from modelling to action films, starting with her debut role in 2000's Model from Hell. She garnered acclaim for her physicality and screen presence, leading to her breakthrough role in Mission: Impossible III, where she starred alongside Tom Cruise. Beyond her acting career, Maggie Q has been an ardent animal rights activist and vegan, contributing significantly to PETA campaigns. In 2013, she was recognized for her efforts to promote plant-based diets and named PETA's Person of the Year. Simultaneously, her performance in the television series Nikita, where she played the lead role, has earned her a place among the most respected actresses in the action genre.
- Birthplace: Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
- Jeanne Moreau was the sort of talent that could generate hyperbolic labels like "the world's greatest actress," which was how no less an authority than Orson Welles described her. For a half-century, Moreau constantly set the bar for screen performances with her fearless, deeply emotive and passionate turns in such bona fide classics as "Elevator to the Gallows" (1958), "Jules and Jim" (1960), "The Trial" (1961), "Diary of a Chambermaid" (1964), "The Bride Wore Black" (1968), "Querelle" (1982) and countless others. The list of legendary directors who queued up to add her earthy sensuality and versatility to their films included figures like Welles, François Truffaut, Louis Malle, Rainer Werner Fassbinder, Wim Wenders, Luc Besson and Tony Richardson. But despite the quality of her performances, Moreau was largely unknown to mass audiences, especially in America, where she was generally regarded as an art house figure. More mainstream moviegoers knew her as Cinderella's great-granddaughter in "Ever After" (1998) than for "Jules and Jim." If the anonymity bothered Moreau, it never showed; she simply continued to give life-affirming performances well into her eighties while dabbling in work behind the camera on several occasions. Moreau was one of the few actresses whose work remained consistently top-notch for the entirety of her career, with bit parts and cameos as well-crafted as her leading roles. In doing so, she cemented her status as one of the cinema's greatest actors. Her death at the age of 89 on July 31, 2017 brought forth international mourning, with French President Emmanuel Macron eulogizing her as a powerful figure who "always rebelled against the established order."
- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
- Though primarily a star in her native France, actress Carole Bouquet made a lasting impression as one of the more widely recognized Bond Girls for her performance opposite Roger Moore's 007 in "For Your Eyes Only" (1981). Prior to her breakout film, Bouquet starred in Luis Bunuel's "That Obscure Object of Desire" (1977) and Bertrand Blier's "Cold Cuts" (1979), which starred future companion, Gerard Depardieu, with whom she had a long-term liaison nearly 20 years later. Meanwhile, she was primed for stardom following her role in "For Your Eyes Only," but opted to make films in Europe instead of pursuing a career in Hollywood. All throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Bouquet was a major star in France, turning in noted performances in films like "Dagger Eyes" (1983), "Double Messieurs" (1986) and "Too Beautiful for You" (1989). Director Francis Ford Coppola cast him for his segment of the anthology "New York Stories" (1989), which brought her briefly to the States, but the actress again opted to make movies at home and turned in one of her better performances in the true-to-life "Lucie Aubrac" (1997). Her personal life took a hit in the next century when her engagement with Depardieu fell apart and she later became tabloid fodder for an alleged affair with French president Nicolas Sarkozy. Regardless, Bouquet remained a popular celebrity in France whose notably alluring beauty only became more refined with age.
- Birthplace: Neuilly-sur-Seine, Hauts-de-Seine, France
- Nationality: France
- French actress Julie Delpy progressed from ingenue roles to become one of the most respected members of the international film community. A native of Paris, and raised in an acting family, she began her career while still a teenager with a small role in Jean-Luc Godard's "Detective" (1985). Roles followed in French films, including "Beatrice" (1987) and "The Dark NIght of the Soul" (1989). She found international acclaim for her role in "Europa, Europa" (1990), playing a pro-Nazi German who falls in love with a Jewish man. After starring opposite Sam Shephard in the French film "Voyager" (1991), Delpy began moving more into English language roles. She starred in Roger Avary's thriller "Killing Zoe" (1993), and then joined the all-star cast of Disney's "The Three Musketeers" (1993). At the same time, she starred in Krzysztof Kieslowski's trilogy "Three Colors: Blue" (1993), "Three Colors: White" (1994), and "Three Colors: Red" (1994). She then took what many considered her signature role, starring in Richard Linklater's romantic drama "Before Sunrise" (1995). She played Celine, a young woman who spends an evening in Vienna with Ethan Hawke's American writer, Jesse. She continued mixing American studio films like "An American Werewolf in Paris" (1997) and "But I'm a Cheerleader" (1999) with international productions such as "The Treat" (1998) and "Beginner's Luck" (2001). She also joined the American television hit "ER" (NBC, 1994-2009) for a memorable storyline, playing the girlfriend of Goran Visnjic's doctor. She rejoined Linklater and Hawke for the director's experimental animated film "Waking Life" (2001). The trio then began working on a sequel to "Before Sunrise." They shared writing credit on the resulting "Before Sunset" (2004), which saw the two original characters brought back together in France. The script earned them an Academy Award nomination. In addition to screenwriting, Delpy made her feature directorial debut with "Looking for Jimmy" (2002). She went on to write and direct multiple features, including the critically acclaimed "2 Days in Paris" (2007), "The Countess" (2009), and "Lolo" (2015). Delpy joined forces on more time with Hawke and Linklater for "Before Midnight" (2013), exploring what happened to Celine and Jesse after they entered into a relationship. The trio were once again nominated for an Academy Award for the script. Besides acting in films that she wrote or directed, Delpy continued working as an actress in films including "The Bachelors" (2017) and "Burning Shadows" (2018). She continued her filmmaking career with "My Zoe" (2019), which she wrote, directed, and starred in.
- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France, United States of America
- A versatile comedienne, writer, director and singer, Valérie Lemercier had a long career making people laugh. She not only starred in the highest grossing film in French history, "Les Visiteurs," but also won two prestigious César Awards, the French equivalent of the Oscars. Lemercier was born on March 9, 1964 in Dieppe, France. Growing up on a farm in Gonzeville, Upper Normandy in a financially secure family, she had a strict, disciplined upbringing where hard work was valued over all. During her childhood, she discovered a love of entertaining her family. At 18, Lemercier left for Paris with 10 100-franc notes in her pocket. She studied acting with the well-known French instructor Jean Chevrin while working in department stores and doing other odd jobs, until she made her big screen debut for the acclaimed French director Louis Malle in his comedy "May Fools" (1990). She gained her first César nomination for the comedy "L'Opération Corned-Beef" (1991), directed by Jean-Marie Poiré, before making her big screen breakthrough with Poiré's next film, the time-travel comedy "Les Visiteurs" (1993), which became the highest grossing film in French history and won her the first of her two César Awards for Best Supporting Actress. The second came with her role as a disenchanted actress in the bittersweet comedy "Avenue Montaigne" (2006). Along with staying in high demand as a comic actress, Lemercier also branched into writing and directing, beginning with "Quadrille" (1997); her third César nomination, and first for Best Actress, came with another film she wrote and directed, "Palais royal!" (2005). Lemercier's farcical "100% Cachemire" (2013) starred herself and Gilles Lellouche as a trendy Parisian couple who decide that adopting a child will be the perfect fashion accessory.
- Birthplace: Dieppe, France
- Nationality: France
- Sophie Marceau, renowned for her beauty and acting prowess, was born on November 17th, 1966 in Paris, France. Her journey into the world of fame commenced at the tender age of fourteen when she was chosen to play the lead role in the teenage movie La Boum. This movie, which turned out to be a massive success, instantly catapulted Marceau to stardom, marking the beginning of her illustrious career. Marceau's talent is not limited to acting as she has also made significant strides as a writer and director. She authored a novel titled Telling Lies in 2001 that further demonstrated her creative dexterity. In 2002, she directed her first feature film called Speak to Me of Love, which won the award for Best Director at the Montreal World Film Festival. Thus, Sophie Marceau was not only a remarkable actress but also successfully ventured into other facets of the entertainment industry, proving her versatility. Over the course of her career, Marceau has acted in numerous films, displaying her acting skills across various genres, from romance to action. Some of her notable roles include Princess Isabelle in Braveheart, Elektra King in The World Is Not Enough, and Lisa in Trivial. Each of these roles showcased her ability to bring depth and nuance to her characters, making her performances truly memorable.
- Birthplace: France, Paris
- Nationality: France
- Coral Reef Adventure, Exploring the Reef, Jean-Michel Cousteau: Ocean Adventures: America's Underwater TreasuresJean-Michel Cousteau (born 6 May 1938) is a French oceanographic explorer, environmentalist, educator, and film producer. The first son of ocean explorer Jacques Cousteau, he is the father of Fabien Cousteau and Céline Cousteau.
- Birthplace: France, Toulon
- Nationality: France
- A handsome, steely leading man in American films as well as those of his native France, Christopher Lambert gained worldwide fame with his first starring role in "Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan, Lord of the Apes" (1984) before becoming something of a pop culture icon through the "Highlander" (1986) franchise. The "Highlander" films cast him as an immortal Scottish swordsman and became objects of cult worship. He continued to work steadily into the 21st century, providing a touch of Continental charm to his soulful assassins and stalwart lawmen, which in turn endeared him to a vast audience of action fans.
- Birthplace: Great Neck, New York, USA
- Nationality: France, United States of America
- 1Highlander112 Votes
- 2Fortress57 Votes
- 3Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan, Lord of the Apes66 Votes
Tom Nolan
Batman Begins, Pretty Woman, An Affair to RememberTom Nolan (born Bernard Girouard; January 15, 1948) is an American actor and journalist whose career dates back to his work as a child star in the 1950s and early 1960s. As a child actor, he was credited as Butch Bernard. In the 1960s, he was a writer for Cheetah, the Los Angeles Times and Rolling Stone. Nolan resides in the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles.- Birthplace: Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Nationality: Canada, United States of America
- Born in the heart of Eastern Europe, Olga Kurylenko rocketed to international fame from humble beginnings. Born on November 14, 1979, in Berdyansk, Ukraine, Kurylenko lived in poverty during her early years. Her parents divorced when she was just three and she was raised by her single mother. However, destiny intervened when a talent scout discovered the then-13-year-old Kurylenko while on vacation in Moscow. This chance encounter paved the way for her successful career in modeling, which was her stepping stone into the world of acting. Kurylenko's rise in the modeling industry was rapid. By 16, she had moved to Paris and signed with the Madison Agency. She graced the covers of prestigious magazines like Vogue and Elle, and featured in campaigns for brands such as Bebe, Clarins, and Helena Rubinstein, establishing herself as a highly sought-after model. While enjoying modeling success, Kurylenko nurtured her passion for acting. She began receiving small roles in French films before landing a significant role in the 2005 film L'Annulaire, which earned her the Best Actress award at the Brooklyn International Film Festival. Kurylenko's acting prowess was globally recognized when she landed the coveted role of Bond girl Camille Montes in the 22nd James Bond film, Quantum of Solace (2008), alongside Daniel Craig. With this role, she joined an elite group of actresses who have played the love interest of the iconic British spy. Kurylenko continued to impress with performances in films like Oblivion (2013) alongside Tom Cruise and The Water Diviner (2014) with Russell Crowe, demonstrating her versatility and consolidating her position in Hollywood. Beyond her acting career, Kurylenko is known for her philanthropic efforts, particularly her commitment to improving educational opportunities for children in her native Ukraine.
- Birthplace: Berdyansk, Ukraine
- Nationality: Ukraine, France
- A Best Director Oscar winner for "The Pianist" (2002), Roman Polanski also made the seminal films "Rosemary's Baby" (1969) and "Chinatown" (1974), but his career was inevitably overshadowed by the shocking murder of second wife Sharon Tate and his statutory rape of a 13-year-old girl which resulted in him becoming one of America's most high-profile fugitives. Born in Paris, France in 1933 to Polish immigrant parents who moved back to Krakow shortly after, Roman Polanski endured a traumatic early childhood which was largely spent in the Krakow Ghetto following the outbreak of World War II, a period in which his mother was tragically killed at Auschwitz. Using cinema as a form of escapism, Polanski developed a passion for movies and in his late teens attended Lodz's National Film School. He achieved his first screen credit as an actor, in Andrzej Walda's "Pokolenie" (1954), before making his directorial debut with the semi-autobiographical "Rower" (1955). Following several further shorts, Polanski made the leap to feature films with the unsettling Oscar-nominated thriller "Knife in the Water" (1962) before helming psychological horror "Repulsion" (1965), tragicomedy "Cul-de-sac" (1966) and parody "The Fearless Vampire Killers" (1967). He then ventured into Hollywood for the first time with the acclaimed Satanic horror "Rosemary's Baby" (1968). But tragedy struck a year later when his second wife, Sharon Tate, was brutally murdered at their Los Angeles home alongside four friends by members of the notorious Manson Family. Polanski subsequently threw himself into his work, directing a provocative adaptation of "Macbeth" (1971) and absurdist comedy "What?" (1973) before becoming the toast of Tinseltown with "Chinatown" (1974), the neo-noir mystery based on the California Water Wars, which earned 11 Academy Award nominations. But after helming and starring as a Polish immigrant in Parisian tale "The Tenant" (1976), his story took an even darker turn two years later when he was charged with the rape of a 13-year-old girl in Los Angeles. Polanski later pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of unlawful sex with a minor, but on learning that a lengthy prison sentence was imminent, he fled America, spending the rest of his life in European exile. Yet Polanski continued to make films, and continued to receive the adoration of critics, with his next film, "Tess" (1979), picking up three Oscars and a Best Picture nomination. He fared less well with the swashbuckling epic "Pirates" (1986), but soon bounced back with "Frantic" (1988), a Hitchcock-esque thriller starring his future third wife Emmanuelle Seigner. After adding to his filmography with acting credits in in "Back in the USSR" (1992), "Una pura formulita" (1994) and "Zemsta" (2002), and directorial efforts "Bitter Moon" (1992), "Death and the Maiden" (1994) and "The Ninth Gate" (1999), Polanski adapted Polish-Jewish musician Wladyslaw Szpilman's autobiography in "The Pianist" (2003), winning both the Palme d'Or and Best Director Oscar in the process. He then took on Charles Dickens for "Oliver Twist" (2005) and Robert Harris for "The Ghost Writer" (2010), directed adaptations of stage plays "Carnage" (2011) and "Venus in Fur" (2013), and tackled the Dreyfus Affair in "J'accuse" (2019).
- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France, Poland
Sylvie Testud
La Vie en rose, I'm Going Home, SadeFrench actress Sylvie Testud earned international recognition for her portrayal of Mômone, the best friend of singer Edith Piaf (Marion Cotillard) in the 2007 Oscar-winning biopic "La vie en rose." A native of Lyon, France, Testud was inspired to take up acting after seeing a young Charlotte Gainsbourg in the 1985 film "L'effrontée." After taking drama courses in her hometown, she began formal training at the Conservatoire Nationale d'Art Dramatique in Paris, eventually earning small roles in films directed by Philippe Harel and Marion Vernoux. But it was her performance in German filmmaker Caroline Link's "Jenseits der Stille" (1997), for which she learned sign language and the clarinet, that proved to be the actor's breakthrough success. Testud went on to find memorable roles in 1999's "Karnaval" and the spellbinding "Murderous Maids" (2000)--as notorious real-life French murderess Christine Papin. While her scene-stealing performance opposite Marion Cotillard in "La vie en rose" would earn her some clout as a potential Hollywood commodity, Testud, a two-time César Award-winner, remains best known to fans of French film; her portrayal of troubled French playwright Francoise Sagan in the 2008 biopic "Sagan" is considered among her finest work as an actor.- Birthplace: Lyon, France
- Nationality: France
- Christopher Meloni, an American actor, has made a name for himself in the entertainment industry with his versatile acting prowess. Born in Washington D.C. on April 2, 1961, Meloni pursued his passion for acting after completing his education at the University of Colorado Boulder. He began his acting career in the late 1980s, making appearances in television series like 1st & Ten and films such as Runaway Bride. However, it was his portrayal of NYPD Detective Elliot Stabler in the popular TV series Law & Order: Special Victims Unit that catapulted Meloni into the limelight and established him as a prominent figure in the world of television. Meloni's performance in Law & Order: SVU not only won him critical acclaim but also earned him an Emmy nomination in 2006. His nuanced portrayal of a detective dealing with heinous crimes against vulnerable victims showcased his ability to handle complex character arcs, thereby proving his mettle as a skilled actor. Beyond his notable role in Law & Order: SVU, Meloni has exhibited his versatility in various other roles across multiple genres. His performances in HBO's prison drama Oz as the sociopath Chris Keller, and in the comedic series Wet Hot American Summer as the cook Gene, further demonstrate his wide-ranging abilities. In addition to his television roles, Meloni has also made significant contributions to the film industry. He has appeared in numerous films, including Man of Steel, 42, and They Came Together, displaying his adaptability as an actor.
- Birthplace: Washington, D.C., USA
- Nationality: United States of America
- Some actors are known for what they do and others are known for who they associate with. French actress Emmanuelle Seigner was in the news for both. At first people noticed her for her looks, since she was a model before she started acting. However, theater ran in the family: her grandfather, Louis Seigner, was the head of the Comedie Francaise. She was also in the public consciousness due to her marriage to controversial director Roman Polanski, while he lived as a fugitive due to his fleeing jail time in America after his conviction for raping an underage girl. For the bulk of her career, Seigner acted in small films little seen outside of France, although she also appeared in small roles of most of her husband's films, including the action thriller "Frantic" (1988) with Harrison Ford, romantic drama "Bitter Moon" (1992) with Hugh Grant and supernatural fantasy "The Ninth Gate" (1999) opposite Johnny Depp. In 2007, she had key roles in a pair of well-regarded biopics, the Edith Piaf story "La Vie en Rose" (2007) and the Julian Schnabel-helmed "The Diving Bell and the Butterfly" (2007), the story of a magazine editor who becomes completely paralyzed with the exception of his left eye. After appearing as the female lead in the Victor Hugo adaptation "The Man Who Laughs" (2012), Seigner garnered considerable acclaim for her fearlessly sensual performance opposite Mathieu Amalric in Polanski's adaptation of the off-Broadway hit "Venus in Fur" (2013).
- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
- French actress/director Mélanie Laurent quickly ascended to star status in her native country with acclaimed, award-winning turns as soulful, often sultry women in such films as "Don't Worry, I'm Fine" (2006), before reaching international stardom with Quentin Tarantino's World War II action epic "Inglourious Basterds" (2009). She began acting as a teenager on the advice of Gérard Depardieu, who provided her with a debut role in his drama "The Bridge" (1999), which was soon followed by small parts in features and on French television. A César Award for her gripping performance in "Don't Worry, I'm Fine" as a teenager embroiled in a family secret vaulted her to the top of her profession, while also spurring her to explore opportunities behind the camera as the director of two well-regarded short films. Her turn in "Basterds" as an avenging Jewish theater owner received near-universal acclaim from international critical associations. However, Laurent preferred to remain active in French cinema for the next few years until returning to the States for such English-language hits as "Beginners" (2010) and "Now You See Me" (2013). Laurent's smoldering screen presence and burgeoning multi-hyphenate status underscored her standing as one of world cinema's most accomplished talents.
- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
- The epitome of the worldly French song-and-dance man, Maurice Chevalier was one of the 20th century's most beloved entertainers, delighting audiences the world over in a five-decade career that encompassed vaudeville, light opera, motion pictures and concerts. Perennially decked out in tuxedo tails and a rakish straw boater, Chevalier crooned love songs in a honeyed Gallic accent that endeared him to theatergoers in the teens and early 1920s before entering silent features. Hollywood beckoned in the early 1930s, and he enjoyed a string of musical hits, including "Love Me Tonight" (1932) before returning to France prior to World War II. He returned more popular than ever in the late 1950s, thanks to "Gigi" (1958), which earned him a special Oscar. Chevalier would go on to essay courtly grandfathers until his retirement in 1968. His death in 1972 marked the end of a charmed life, dedicated to spreading the gospel of love and happiness through a song, a smile and a tip of a hat.
- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
- Born in France of Russian descent, Vernon Dobtcheff nevertheless found his footing as an actor in Merry Olde England, gaining a reputation as much for off-screen support of his fellow actors as for his able-bodied film and TV work. Though not a star by any means, Dobtcheff was everything from a concierge in "Murder on the Orient Express" to a peripheral player in one of the more acclaimed James Bond entries, 1977's "The Spy Who Loved Me." Dobtcheff's ability to convincingly play Russian characters has come in handy throughout his career, encompassing a USSR official in "Fiddler on the Roof," the role of Pestov in a 1997 adaptation of "Anna Karenina." and the role of Sergio Grigoriev in the 1980 ballet biopic, "Nijinsky." Sometimes, Dobtcheff's film work has been of the blink-and-you'll-miss-it variety, such as the time he played a butler in the third Indiana Jones tale, "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade," in 1989.
- Birthplace: Nîmes, France
- Nationality: France, United Kingdom
- Arthur Higelin (27 March 1966), better known under his stage name Arthur H [aʁtyʁ ɑːʃ], is a pianist, songwriter and singer. He is best known in France for his live performances—four of his albums were recorded live.
- Birthplace: France, Paris
- Nationality: France
Samuel Benchetrit
Backstage, Les Gazelles, YouSamuel Benchetrit is a director, writer, and actor who is known for directing "Asphalte" and "I Always Wanted to Be a Gangster." Benchetrit was nominated for a César Award in 2016 for the first project.- Birthplace: Champigny-sur-Marne, France
- Nationality: France
- Eva Green, born on July 6, 1980, in Paris, France, is a renowned actress and model who has captivated audiences with her intense performances and ethereal beauty. The daughter of Marlène Jobert, a French actress, and Walter Green, a Swedish dentist, Green's introduction to the arts was through her mother's successful acting career. She studied at the prestigious American School of Paris before attending the esteemed Saint Paul Drama School in Paris, followed by an education at the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art in London, solidifying her foundation in the performing arts. Green's breakthrough role came in 2003 when she starred in Bernardo Bertolucci's film The Dreamers. Her portrayal of the free-spirited Isabelle earned her international recognition and paved the way for her future roles. In 2006, she played the Bond girl Vesper Lynd in Casino Royale, opposite Daniel Craig, which further propelled her into global stardom. This role won her the BAFTA Rising Star Award and solidified her status as a versatile actress capable of handling complex characters. Throughout her career, Green has shown remarkable versatility, taking on roles in various genres from historical dramas such as Kingdom of Heaven to fantasy films like Dark Shadows. Her television work includes a critically acclaimed performance in the series Penny Dreadful, where she played the haunted Vanessa Ives. Green's commitment to her craft and her ability to portray a wide range of characters has cemented her as one of the most talented actresses of her generation.
- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
- Pelleas et Melisande (Glyndebourne Opera), Great Recordings of the Century, Debussy: Prelude a L'Apres Midi: Naxos Musical Journey(Achille) Claude Debussy (French: [aʃil klod dəbysi]; 22 August 1862 – 25 March 1918) was a French composer. He is sometimes seen as the first Impressionist composer, although he vigorously rejected the term. He was among the most influential composers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born to a family of modest means and little cultural involvement, Debussy showed enough musical talent to be admitted at the age of ten to France's leading music college, the Conservatoire de Paris. He originally studied the piano, but found his vocation in innovative composition, despite the disapproval of the Conservatoire's conservative professors. He took many years to develop his mature style, and was nearly 40 when he achieved international fame in 1902 with the only opera he completed, Pelléas et Mélisande. Debussy's orchestral works include Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune (1894), Nocturnes (1897–1899) and Images (1905–1912). His music was to a considerable extent a reaction against Wagner and the German musical tradition. He regarded the classical symphony as obsolete and sought an alternative in his "symphonic sketches", La mer (1903–1905). His piano works include two books of Préludes and two of Études. Throughout his career he wrote mélodies based on a wide variety of poetry, including his own. He was greatly influenced by the Symbolist poetic movement of the later 19th century. A small number of works, including the early La Damoiselle élue and the late Le Martyre de saint Sébastien have important parts for chorus. In his final years, he focused on chamber music, completing three of six planned sonatas for different combinations of instruments. With early influences including Russian and far-eastern music, Debussy developed his own style of harmony and orchestral colouring, derided – and unsuccessfully resisted – by much of the musical establishment of the day. His works have strongly influenced a wide range of composers including Béla Bartók, Olivier Messiaen, George Benjamin, and the jazz pianist and composer Bill Evans. Debussy died from cancer at his home in Paris at the age of 55 after a composing career of a little more than 30 years.
- Birthplace: Saint-Germain-en-Laye, France
- Nationality: France
- An iconic figure in the history of 20th century French cinema, Simone Signoret was an Oscar-winning actress whose sensuous and sensitive performances in such films as "Casque d'Or" (1952), "Les Diaboliques" (1955), "Room at the Top" (1957) and "Ship of Fools" (1965) drew critical acclaim for nearly four decades. She began in bit parts during the 1940s, eventually working her way up to supporting turns as tragic seductresses in "Dédée d'Anvers" (1948), among others. By the 1950s, she was showing exceptional depth in a wide variety of arthouse classics, including "Diaboliques," an enduring chiller that solidified her screen persona as a complex, even dangerous woman. In 1957, she became the first foreign actress to win an Academy Award for her turn as an unhappy wife in "Room at the Top," but surprised many by favoring continental productions over Hollywood. The decision was a shrewd one, as it gave her some of her best features, including "Army of Shadows" (1969), "Le Chat" (1971) and "Madame Rosa" (1977). A childhood spent under the shadow of Nazi Germany made her a dedicated supporter of human rights throughout her life, which culminated in the 1985 documentary "Terrorists in Retirement," about Eastern European Jews who fought in the French Resistance. It would be her final grand accomplishment before her death that year from cancer. Critics and audiences around the world mourned the passing of an actress whose bravery, honesty and commitment to cinema remained of the highest order.
- Birthplace: Wiesbaden, Germany
- Nationality: Weimar Republic, France
Katherine Kath
Moulin Rouge, Anastasia, The Assassination BureauKatherine Kath was an actress.- Birthplace: Berck, Pas-de-Calais, France
- Nationality: France
- Vincent Perez (born 10 June 1964) is a Swiss actor, director and photographer. He is best known internationally for playing the title character, Ashe Corven, in The Crow: City of Angels, and for starring in Queen of the Damned, playing Marius de Romanus. Some of his notable films in French cinema include Cyrano de Bergerac, Le Bossu, La Reine Margot and Indochine.
- Birthplace: Switzerland, Lausanne
- Nationality: Switzerland
Nathalie Richard
Caché, Never Let Me Go, NovoParisian actress Nathalie Richard made her first film appearance at the age of 21 in the 1983 Norwegian romance "Black Crowes." But it was six years later--when Richard landed a role in the coming-of-age drama "The Gang of Four"--that she really began to receive the attention of casting directors and film audiences. For her performance in that film, Richard won the Prix Michel Simon prize for Best Actress. In the following years, Richard's career grew steadily. In 1995, Richard co-wrote the screenplay for "Haut Bas Fragile," a musical comedy about the lives of three different women during one summer in Paris. In addition to being a part of the writing team, Richard played the role of Ninon and performed several musical numbers in the film. On the small screen, Richard appeared in the 2005 mini-series "3 Femmes... Un Soir d'Été" and as a series regular in the 2009's "Paris 16éme." Some of Richard's most recognizable feature film roles include the lesbian costume designer Zoé in the 1996 satire "Irma Vep" and Mathilde in the 2005 thriller "Caché." Richard is also well-known for her role in the 2010 chilling dystopian drama "Never Let Me Go," starring Carey Mulligan, Andrew Garfield, and Keira Knightley.- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
- Coolly cerebral and internal where French New Wave peers Jean-Paul Belmondo and Alain Delon leaned toward the physical and intense, Jean-Louis Trintignant enjoyed a five-decade career as an actor in some of arthouse cinema's most acclaimed films, from "And God Created Woman" (1956) and "A Man and a Woman" (1966) to "Z" (1969), "Three Colors: Red: (1994) and "Amour" (2012). His languid features and economical performing style earmarked him for young romantics, which he personified in Claude Lelouch's international success "A Man and a Woman." But Trintignant resisted pigeonholing, preferring instead to play complicated, challenged figures on both sides of the law in dozens of political dramas and crime dramas during the late 1960s and early 1970s, most notably "The Conformist" (1970), as a faceless factotum who traded his basic values for social acceptance. His international profile faded in the 1980s, but he enjoyed returns to prominence with Krzysztof Kieslowski's "Three Colors: Red" (1994) and Michael Haneke's "Amour" (2012). Though never a major international star, Trintignant's vast and critically revered body of work made him one of the most respected actors of the 20th century on both sides of the pond.
- Birthplace: Piolenc, France
- Nationality: France
Jean-Pierre Marielle
The Da Vinci Code, Tenue de soirée, MicmacsA renowned French actor with several decades of experience, Jean-Pierre Marielle has distinguished himself in both comedic and dramatic roles. He became part of France's National Conservatory (Conservatoire National Superieur d'Art Dramatique) where he met fellow actors, Jean-Paul Belmondo and Jean Rochefort, and in 1957, began acting on the screen. He had his first significant role in the Marcel Ophüls comedy, "Banana Peel," with Belmondo and co-starred with comedic legend, Louis de Funès, in the 1964 heist caper, "Rob the Bank." After a series of comedy roles, he began to show his dramatic range in the '70s, playing a serial killer in the thriller, "Sans mobile apparent" (AKA "Without Apparent Motive"). He played an Israeli agent in the adventure, "Man in the Trunk," in 1973 and was the star of the dramatic comedy, "Cookies," which earned him a 1976 César Award nomination, his first of many. In 1981 Marielle played one of his most significant parts in a historical film set in French colonial Africa; Bertrand Tavernier's, "Coup de Torchon," earned him another César nomination. He played another dramatic role in the 1987 film, "Les mois d'avril sont meurtriers," this time portraying a suicidal policeman. He further cemented his reputation with his work in the 1991 historical drama, "Tous les matins du monde," a highly lauded film that co-starred Gérard Depardieu. In 2006, he appeared in the blockbuster, "The Da Vinci Code," and has continued acting well into his 70s.- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
- Though she never achieved the enduring international popularity of her contemporaries Brigitte Bardot and Catherine Deneuve, actress Anouk Aimée nonetheless forged a steady screen career and remained a strong presence in a number of European-based productions. Both sultry and enigmatic, Aimée appeared in a string of melodramas throughout the 1950s until finally breaking into Hollywood with a supporting part in "The Journey" (1959). But it was a turn as a bored nymphomaniac in Federico Fellini's "La Dolce Vita" (1960) that made international audiences sit up and take notice. Following another solid performance as a long-suffering wife in Fellini's "8 1/2" (1963), she earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for "A Man and a Woman" (1966), an international hit and one of the most romantic movies ever made. Even though she gained worldwide prominence from the role, Aimée was unable to turn into a true international star. She had a solid turn in "The Model Shop" (1969), but did little of note during the 1970s and 1980s, though she maintained a steady stream of work. Aimée even tried to return to fertile ground with "A Man and a Woman: 20 Years Later" (1986), but that did little to boost her profile. After a brief reemergence on the world stage in Robert Altman's "Prêt-à-Porter/Ready to Wear" (1994). Aimée settled into a number of supporting roles in European-made films and television miniseries, yet never once lost the allure she had displayed so vividly in her 1960s heyday.
- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
Adèle Haenel
Water Lilies, The Devils, After the SouthAdèle Haenel is an actress who is best known for her role in "Love At First Fight" as Madeleine. Haenel won a César Award in 2015 for the same project.- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
- Emily Deschanel's journey into the world of entertainment began at birth, on October 11, 1976, in Los Angeles, California. She was born into a family with strong ties to the world of film and television. Her father, Caleb Deschanel, is an Academy Award-nominated cinematographer, and her mother, Mary Jo Deschanel, an accomplished actress. This early exposure to the industry sparked Emily's interest and shaped the trajectory of her career. After graduating from Boston University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theater, Emily embarked on her professional acting career. However, it was not until 2005 that Emily gained significant recognition for her acting prowess. That year, she secured the role of Dr. Temperance Brennan, a forensic anthropologist on the critically acclaimed series Bones. Over the course of the show's 12 seasons, her portrayal of this complex character earned her widespread recognition and solidified her status as a skilled dramatic actress. Away from the spotlight, Emily Deschanel has consistently used her platform to advocate for animal rights. A long-time vegan, she has partnered with various organizations to promote animal welfare and a plant-based lifestyle. This commitment to activism, combined with her successful acting career, paints a picture of a multifaceted individual who leverages her influence to effect positive change both on and off-screen.
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
Roxane Duran
The White Ribbon, 17 Girls, The MonkRoxane Duran is an actress who appeared in "Évolution," "Riviera," and "17 Girls."- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France, Austria
- Few filmmakers had so profound an effect on the development of cinema as Jean-Luc Godard, certainly one of the most important and influential directors worldwide to have emerged since the end of World War II. From his early days as a critic and thinker in the pages of Cahiers du cinema, through the great age of the French New Wave of the 1960s, Godard redefined the way we look at film. An essayist and poet of the cinema, he made the language of film a real part of his narratives. Godard emerged on the international filmmaking scene with his most famous and perhaps best film, "Breathless" (1960), a celebration of the American film noir that also served as the stylistic template for the rest of the 1960s, widely considered to be his most fertile creative period. During that turbulent decade, Godard made no less than two films a year and sometime more, creating such experimental and increasingly politically-minded films as "Vivre sa vie" (My Life to Live") (1962), "Contempt" (1963), Bande à Part" ("Band of Outsiders") (1964) and "Alphaville" (1965), many of which starred his first wife, Anna Karina. After making the critically panned "Weekend" (1967), a disgruntled Godard left the filmmaking business altogether in order to make political films. Once that interest waned in 1972, he entered into a transitional period of video and television projects that eventually segued into a second period of narrative filmmaking that was more experimental and inaccessible than his previous work, though some critics declared this time as being more creatively fruitful. Chief among the works was the controversial "Hail Mary" (1985), a contemporary retelling of the biblical Joseph and Mary story that was tagged by the Vatican as being blasphemous. Whether he was continuing his long love affair with film noir, as he did with "Detective" (1985), or trying new narrative techniques with the ambiguous "King Lear" (1987), Godard was not only a tireless experimenter with form and context, but also synonymous with the world of cinema itself.
- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: Switzerland, France
- Jean Maurice Eugène Clément Cocteau (French: [ʒɑ̃ kɔkto]; 5 July 1889 – 11 October 1963) was a French poet, playwright, novelist, designer, filmmaker, visual artist and critic. Cocteau is best known for his novels Le Grand Écart (1923), Le Livre Blanc (1928), and Les Enfants Terribles (1929); the stage plays La Voix Humaine (1930), La Machine Infernale (1934), Les Parents terribles (1938), La Machine à écrire (1941), and L'Aigle à deux têtes (1946); and the films The Blood of a Poet (1930), Les Parents Terribles (1948), from his own eponymous piéce, Beauty and the Beast (1946), Orpheus (1949), and Testament of Orpheus (1960), which alongside Blood of a Poet and Orpheus constitute the so-called Orphic Trilogy. He was described as "one of [the] avant-garde's most successful and influential filmmakers" by AllMovie.
- Birthplace: Maisons-Laffitte, France
- Nationality: France
- Didier Flamand (born 12 March 1947) is a French actor and theatre director. He has appeared in more than 150 films and television shows since 1973. He starred in Raúl Ruiz's 1978 film The Suspended Vocation.
- Birthplace: France
- Nationality: France
- Michèle Morgan (French: [miʃɛl mɔʁɡan]; 29 February 1920 – 20 December 2016) was a French film actress, who was a leading lady for three decades in both French cinema and Hollywood features. She is considered to have been one of the great French actresses of the 20th century. Morgan was the inaugural winner of the Best Actress Award at the Cannes Film Festival. In 1992, she was given an honorary César Award for her contributions to French cinema.
- Birthplace: Nanterre, France, Neuilly-sur-Seine
- Nationality: France
- Jane Mallory Birkin (December 14, 1946 – July 16, 2023) was a British and French singer and actress. She attained international fame and notability for her decade-long musical and romantic partnership with Serge Gainsbourg. She also had a prolific career as an actress, mostly in French cinema. In addition to her acting and musical credits, she lent her name to the Hermès Birkin handbag.
- Birthplace: London, England, UK
- Nationality: United Kingdom
Sœur Emmanuelle
The EclipseSœur (Sister) Emmanuelle, N.D.S., (November 16, 1908 – October 20, 2008), was a Religious Sister of both Belgian and French origins, noted for her involvement in working for the plight of the poor in Turkey and Egypt. She was honoured with Egyptian citizenship in 1991.- Birthplace: Brussels, Belgium
- Nationality: France, Belgium
- André Maurois (French: [mɔʁwa]; born Émile Salomon Wilhelm Herzog; 26 July 1885 – 9 October 1967) was a French author.
- Birthplace: France, Elbeuf
- Nationality: France
- Magnetic, intense French actor Mathieu Amalric made his film debut in the 1980s, but achieved greater fame almost a decade later with appearances in features by Steven Spielberg, Julien Temple and Sofia Coppola. In his native country, Amalric was best known for his three collaborations with director Arnaud Desplechin, who gave him his first notable role in 1997's "Ma Vie Sexuelle." The acclaim surrounding Amalric's work with Desplechin led to other notable performances in European films, as well as a second career as a film director. Amalric's profile rose to global proportions after his moving turn as a paraplegic in Temple's "The Diving Bell and the Butterfly" (2007). His decision to play the villain in "Quantum of Solace" (2008), the second James Bond picture with Daniel Craig, raised eyebrows among his arthouse following, but he soon laid their fears to rest by reuniting with Desplechin for "A Christmas Tale" (2008). The dichotomy of the two projects proved that Amalric was a performer whose passion lay less with stardom than with the quality of the project at hand.
- Birthplace: Neuilly-sur-Seine, France
- Nationality: France
Sim
Asterix & Obelix Take On Caesar, The Voice of the Moon, Drôles de zèbresSim (born Simon Jacques Eugène Berryer, 21 July 1926 in Cauterets, Hautes-Pyrénées — 6 September 2009 in Saint-Raphaël, Var) was a French humourist, writer and comedian. He was part of the team on Les Grosses Têtes, a radio and TV programme. He also played the part of Geriatrix in the films Asterix and Obelix vs Caesar and Astérix at the Olympic Games.- Birthplace: France
- Nationality: France
- Catherine ("Cathy") Tanvier (born 28 May 1965) is a former tennis player from France. She peaked at number 20 in 1984, and won one singles and nine doubles titles on the WTA Tour.
- Birthplace: Toulouse, France
- Nationality: France
Henri Attal
Pierrot le Fou, Masculin Féminin, A Woman Is a WomanHenri Attal was an actor who appeared in "Madame Bovary," "Story of Women," and "Les ripoux."- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
- Unquestionably one of the most popular authors in literary history, 19th century French writer Jules Verne created a world of scientific wonder and technological discovery in such classic novels as Journey to the Center of the Earth (1864) and Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea (1870) that helped give rise to the science fiction genre. Verne's work predicted travel through the air, into space and under the sea at a time when such accomplishments were still the stuff of fantasy, and presented them in thrilling adventures that continued to capture the imagination of readers a century later. His work also proved ideal for film and television adaptations, which strove mightily to translate his scope and vision through elaborate special effects. More significantly, Verne's novels were part of the foundation on which the whole of science fiction was built, inspiring writers and filmmakers to imagine the furthest reaches of human achievement. Jules Verne's body of work placed him among a select number of 19th century authors whose writing had a profound influence on the written and visual entertainment of the centuries that followed.
- Birthplace: Pays-de-la-Loire, France
- Nationality: France
François Morel
Towards Zero, South of the Clouds, South of the CloudsFrançois Morel (14 March 1926 – 14 January 2018) was a Canadian composer, pianist, conductor, and music educator. An associate of the Canadian Music Centre, he was made a Knight of the National Order of Quebec in 1994 and was awarded the Prix Denise-Pelletier in 1996. He has had his works premiered by the CBC Symphony Orchestra, the Montreal Symphony Orchestra, and the Philadelphia Orchestra.- Birthplace: Canada
- Nationality: Canada
- Murder on the Orient Express, The Diving Bell and the Butterfly, The Discreet Charm of the BourgeoisieA tall, attractive leading man who worked as an extra and nightclub dancer before being "discovered" by Gene Kelly and cast in "The Happy Road" (1956), Jean-Pierre Cassel went on to establish himself in a series of Phillipe de Broca comedies, developing the persona and facile smile for the farcical romantic roles that became his metier. The whimsical Frenchman began appearing in English-language films of the 60s like "Those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines" (1965) and "Oh! What a Lovely War" (1969), both featuring star-studded international casts. He was the dinner host in Luis Bunuel's award-winning "The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie" (1972) and also acted in Sydney Lumet's "Murder on the Orient Express" (1974) about the time he was embarking on the Richard Lester "Musketeer" franchise, which saw him play King Louis XIII in "The Three Musketeers" (also 1974) and "The Four Musketeers" (1975), then Cyrano de Bergerac for "The Return of the Musketeers" (1989). The older Cassel has portrayed such character parts as Dr. Paul Gachet in Robert Altman's "Vincent & Theo" and Police Inspector Ledoux for the NBC-miniseries "The Phantom of the Opera" (both 1990), directed by Tony Richardson. More recently, he co-starred with Marisa Berenson in the Lifetime remake of "Notorious" (1992) and portrayed Jacqueline Bisset's wealthy husband in Claude Chabrol's "La Ceremonie" (1994).
- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
- Vittorio De Sica (Italian pronunciation: [vitˈtɔːrjo de ˈsiːka]; 7 July 1901 – 13 November 1974) was an Italian director and actor, a leading figure in the neorealist movement. Four of the films he directed won Academy Awards: Sciuscià and Bicycle Thieves (honorary), while Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow and Il giardino dei Finzi Contini won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. Indeed, the great critical success of Sciuscià (the first foreign film to be so recognized by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences) and Bicycle Thieves helped establish the permanent Best Foreign Film Award. These two films are considered part of the canon of classic cinema. Bicycle Thieves was cited by Turner Classic Movies as one of the 15 most influential films in cinema history.De Sica was also nominated for the 1957 Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for playing Major Rinaldi in American director Charles Vidor's 1957 adaptation of Ernest Hemingway's A Farewell to Arms, a movie that was panned by critics and proved a box office flop. De Sica's acting was considered the highlight of the film.
- Birthplace: Italy, Sora
- Nationality: Kingdom of Italy, France, Italy
- This lanky leading man has emerged as one of France's more prominent exports of the 1980s. The son of actor Georges Wilson--the father directed his son in "La vouivure" (1986)--Lambert Wilson starred as the destructive Quentin in Andre Techine's psychodrama "Rendez-vous" and as the cynical photographer in Vera Belmont's nostalgic "Rouge Baiser" (both 1985). He also appeared as the adulterous Caspasian Speckler in Peter Greenaway's "The Belly of an Architect" (1987) and made a move toward US stardom as the Marquis de Lafayette in the Merchant-Ivory production "Jefferson in Paris" (1995). In John Duigan's "The Leading Man" (1997), Wilson had the major role of a playwright who hires an actor (Jon Bon Jovi) to seduce his wife (Anna Galiena).
- Birthplace: Neuilly-sur-Seine, France
- Nationality: France
- Charlotte Lucy Gainsbourg (French pronunciation: [ʃaʁlɔt ɡɛ̃sbuʁ] (listen); born 21 July 1971) is an English-French actress and singer. She is the daughter of English actress Jane Birkin and French singer and songwriter Serge Gainsbourg. After making her musical debut with her father on the song "Lemon Incest" at the age of 12, she released an album with her father at the age of 15. More than 20 years passed before she released the first of four albums as an adult (5:55, IRM, Stage Whisper and Rest) to commercial and critical success. Gainsbourg has also appeared in many films, including several directed by Lars von Trier, and has received both a César Award and the Cannes Film Festival Best Actress Award.
- Birthplace: England, London
- Nationality: France, United Kingdom
- Louis Germain David de Funès de Galarza (French pronunciation: [lwi də fy.nɛs]; 31 July 1914 – 27 January 1983) was a French actor and comedian. According to several polls conducted since 1968, he is France's favourite actor – having played over 130 roles in film and over 100 on stage. His acting style is remembered for its high-energy performance and his wide range of facial expressions and tics. A considerable part of his best-known acting was directed by Jean Girault. He often still is a household name in many countries such as Italy, Greece, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Belgium, Poland, Bulgaria, Germany, Spain, Turkey, Albania, Romania, Croatia, former countries of the Soviet Union, as well as Iran. Yet he remains almost unknown in the English-speaking world. He was exposed to a wider audience only once in the United States, in 1974, with the release of The Mad Adventures of Rabbi Jacob, which was nominated for a Golden Globe Award.
- Birthplace: France, Courbevoie
- Nationality: France
- Ivo Livi, better known as Yves Montand (French pronunciation: [iv mɔ̃tɑ̃]; 13 October 1921 – 9 November 1991), was an Italian-French actor and singer.
- Birthplace: Monsummano Terme, Italy
- Nationality: France
Sandrine Kiberlain
Polisse, Mademoiselle Chambon, The ApartmentCelebrated French actress Sandrine Kiberlain essayed complex female characters in an array of features in her native country, including "En avoir (ou pas)" (1995), "Mademoiselle Chambon" (2009) and "Nine-Month Stretch" (2013), among many others. Born February 25, 1968 in the Paris suburb of Boulogne-Billancourt, France, Kiberlain was raised in the neighborhood of Neuilly-sur-Seine by her parents, who met in a theater workshop. They passed on their interest in performance to their daughter, who studied acting at the private Cours Florent drama school while making minor, often uncredited appearances in features like "Cyrano de Bergerac" (1990) with Gérard Depardieu. Following her graduation from the French National Academy of Dramatic Arts, Kiberlain earned her breakout role in "The Patriots" (1994), an espionage thriller that earned her a César nomination for Most Promising Actress. The following year marked the beginning of her long and fruitful collaboration with director Laetitia Masson with "En avoir (ou pas)," which also brought Kiberlain the César for her turn as a recently unemployed woman who seeks purpose in an affair with a married man. She earned her third César nomination in 1996, playing a young country girl married by and abandoned by Mathieu Kassovitz in "A Self-Made Hero." After receiving a fourth César nod as a woman suffering from an array of psychological issues, including kleptomania, in "Seventh Heaven" (1997), Kiberlain reunited with Masson for the 1998 thriller "For Sale," playing the object of a detective's search. It, too, brought her a César nomination for Best Actress, and Kiberlain would reteam with Masson for the surreal "Love Me" (2000) before enjoying a slew of high-profile turns for directors like Claude Miller, playing a grieving mother who takes in a kidnapped child in "Alias Betty" (2001) and a schoolteacher who falls for the married father (her real-life spouse, actor Vincent Lindon) of one of her charges in Stéphane Brizé's "Mademoiselle Chambon," which brought her yet another César nomination. More than a decade after her last César win, Kiberlain took home a second award for her turn as a stern judge who discovers that she is pregnant by a wanted criminal (director Albert Dupontel) in "Neuf mois ferme" ("Nine-Month Stretch"). She then appeared in director Alain Resnais' final feature, "Life of Riley" (2014), before earning her eighth César as a dedicated fan of a pop star (Laurent Lafitte) who asks her to aid him in disposing of a corpse in "Number One Fan" (2014).- Birthplace: Boulogne-Billancourt, France
- Nationality: France
- Born in Neuilly-sur-Siene, France, in 1933, Jean-Paul Belmondo grew up in artistic family, but was initially drawn to sports. After giving up his aspirations to be a boxer, Belmondo turned to acting. After training at the National Academy of Dramatic Arts, he began working on Paris stages but quickly made the transition to the big screen. 1959, starred in "Web of Passion" (1959), renowned director Claude Chabrol's first thriller. The same year he starred in a short film for a young director named Jean-Luc Godard. Belmondo would also star in Godard's feature debut "Breathless" (1960), a role that would become one a hallmark of the early French New Wave and catapulted Belmondo to become one of France's most successful actors over the next four decades. In addition to the dramas of the New Wave, Belmondo also starred in a number of adventures and comedies, including "Banana Peel" (1963), and "That Man from Rio" (1964). He also continued as the face of the New Wave, in Godard's "Pierrot le Fou" (1965), and starred in "Mississippi Mermaid" (1969) directed by legendary Francois Truffaut also starring Catherine Deneuve. Belmondo scored a hit in France, this time playing a cop, in "Fear Over the City" (1975). His comic heist film "Hold-Up" (1985), was remade in the U.S. as "Quick Change" (1990), starring Bill Murray. Belmondo continued to appear in films through the 1990's, notably "Les Miserables" (1995), written and directed by Claude Lelouch, inspired by the Victor Hugo novel. In 2001, Belmondo suffered a stroke, but returned to the screen to play a homeless older man in "A Man and His Dog" (2008). Jean-Paul Belmondo died on September 6, 2021 in Paris, France at the age of 88.
- Birthplace: Neuilly-sur-Seine, Hauts-de-Seine, France
- Nationality: France
Phillipe Magnan
The Widow of Saint-Pierre, Farewell, The Princess of MontpensierPhilippe Magnan is an actor.- Birthplace: France, Paris
- Nationality: France
- Christian Jules LeBlanc (born August 25, 1958 in Fort Bragg, North Carolina) is an American actor, best known for his role as Michael Baldwin on The Young and the Restless.
- Birthplace: Fort Bragg, North Carolina, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
- French actor Sebastian Roché's life reads something like a movie itself: the linguistically-gifted actor (he is fluent in Spanish, Italian, French and English) spent his teenage years sailing with his family, and later studied drama at the famed Conservatoir Superieur d'Art Dramatique in Paris while working on the French stage and screen. By the late '90s Roché had married actress Vera Farmiga; helped co-write the experimental indie film "Loungers" (1995); and appeared in numerous American films and TV series, including the short-lived Heath Ledger adventure fantasy "Roar" (Fox, 1997). But it was the 2000s that found the avid rock climber ascending to new heights. In 2007 he voiced a character in the epic "Beowulf," and landed a recurring role as a criminally-minded terrorist on the long-running ABC soap opera "General Hospital" (1963- ). Two years later Roché, who continued to perform on stage throughout the U.S. and Europe, was cast as an otherworldly shapeshifter on "Fringe" (Fox, 2008-2013), which he followed up with memorable performances as a rogue angel on "Supernatural" (The CW, 2005- ) and a centuries-old vampire on "The Vampire Diaries" (The CW, 2009-17). Armed with a sly sense of humour and energetic demeanor, Roché brings his scene-stealing presence to both big and small screens.
- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
- Jean-Claude Brialy (30 March 1933 – 30 May 2007) was a French actor and director.
- Birthplace: Sour El-Ghozlane
- Nationality: France
- Bruno Podalydès is a director, writer, and actor who is known for directing "Dieu Seul Me Voit" and "Versailles Rive-Gauche." Podalydès won a César Award in 1999 for the first project.
- Birthplace: Boulogne-Billancourt, Hauts-de-Seine, France
- Nationality: France
Betty Beckers
The Things of Life, César and Rosalie, Hail the ArtistBetty Beckers was an actress.- Birthplace: France, Villeneuve-Saint-Georges
- Nationality: France
Vincent Moscato
The Closet, Ruby & QuentinVincent Moscato is a former French rugby union player. He played as a hooker. Moscato played CA Bordeaux-Bègles Gironde where he won the title of the French Top 14, in 1991. He earned his first national cap on 22 June 1991 against Romania at Bucharest. In a match against England at Parc des Princes in 1992, he received a red card. He never played for France again. He is currently a sport radio talk host with RMC, his daily show is called "Super Moscato Show".- Birthplace: France, Paris
- Nationality: France
- Saïd Taghmaoui's most recognizable role was in the action film "G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra," based on the G.I. Joe toy, comic book, and cartoon. Taghmaoui plays the communications expert and hacker of the G.I. Joe team, "Breaker" Abel Shaz. Early in his career, Taghmaoui co-wrote (with his friend director Mathieu Kassovitz) and acted in the French drama "La Haine." In the film, Taghmaoui's character, also named Saïd, is one of three friends who find themselves alienated and at odds with a racist and anti-immigrant environment in France. In the Gulf War comedy drama "Three Kings," Taghmaoui plays an Iraqi officer who interrogates and performs electroshock torture on Mark Wahlberg's character. Taghmaoui played another figure at odds with the United States government in "Traitor," as a member of a terrorist organization in Yemen who negotiates with the main character, played by Don Cheadle, working undercover as an arms dealer. In the political action thriller "Vantage Point," Taghmaoui plays yet another terrorist, this time a leader named Suarez who tries to assassinate the president of the United States. The premise of the film is the exploration of the same set of events leading up to the assassination from eight different points of view. Matthew Fox also costarred in the film as a secret service agent, and worked with Taghmaoui again when Taghmaoui had a relatively minor but recurring role on four episodes of the popular sci-fi drama series "Lost."
- Birthplace: Villepinte, France
- Nationality: France, United States of America
- Jeanne Balibar first distinguished herself on the stage in France's Festival d'Avignon, an annual performing arts event. But it was her first film role, in noted French director Arnaud Desplechin's thriller "La Sentinelle," that launched Balibar's career in independent European film. In 1996, she collaborated a second time with Desplechin in the romantic comedy "My Sex Life... or How I Got Into an Argument," also starring Balibar's future husband, actor/director Mathieu Amalric. This time, Balibar played a larger supporting role and was even nominated as Most Promising Actress in France's César awards; it would be the first of many nominations. Not long after, she teamed up with Amalric again in Olivier Assayas' adult coming-of-age drama "Late August, Early September," playing the secondary female lead character, Jenny. Balibar would continue holding supporting roles in heavy emotional dramas and, occasionally, thrillers. Most notably, she collaborated once again with Assayas in "Clean," about a former junkie trying to regain control of her life. In 2003, Balibar played Tim Robbins' girlfriend in the British sci-fi thriller "Code 46." The same year, Balibar took a starring role in "All the Fine Promises," one of the most distinguished films from French New Wave director Jean-Paul Civeyrac. In it, Balibar's character deals with heavy emotional subjects once again--coping with her mother's death, a romantic break-up, and a family scandal.
- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
- Handsome, romantic Continental lead for over five decades. Aumont began his career on the French stage, scoring a triumph in Cocteau's "La Machine Infernale" (1934). He entered film in France in the early 1930s and, after fighting with the Free French Army and earning both the Legion of Honor and the Croix de Guerre, made his Hollywood debut in "Assignment in Brittany" (1943). Aumont has alternated between stage and film and US and international productions. His most representative roles came as the suave, philandering magician, Marco the Magnificent, in "Lili" (1953) and as an aging matinee idol in Truffaut's valentine to filmmaking, "Day For Night" (1973). Married to actresses Blanche Montel, Maria Montez and--twice--Marisa Pavan, he is also the brother of director Francois Villiers and father of actress Tina Aumont.
- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
Michèle Moretti
Look at Me, The Names of Love, Wild ReedsMichèle Moretti is a French actress. She has appeared in more than one hundred films since 1961.- Birthplace: France, Paris
- Nationality: France
Ernst Umhauer
In the House, The Monk, Le criErnst Umhauer is an actor.- Birthplace: Cherbourg-Octeville, France
- Nationality: France
Raoul Billerey
Betty Blue, Jet Lag, Dien Bien PhuRaoul Billerey was a French actor.- Birthplace: Nice, France
- Nationality: France
- In his first major film role as Antoine Doinel, Jean-Pierre Leaud exhibited a mature command as an unloved youth who turns petty thief in Francois Truffaut's memorable classic "The Four Hundred Blows" (1959). The film's final frozen image of Leaud's round face staring at the camera with a mixture of humor and confusion has become a familiar screen image. Truffaut went on to direct the actor in six additional films, four of which detailed the further adventures of Doinel. Leaud matured into a lanky, sharp-featured but furtive man. Over the course of the series, he proved to be a modest talent with his initial performance the best. As Leaud matured along with the character of Doinel, he demonstrated his limitations, playing against the sentimentality of "Stolen Kisses" (1968) and lending an almost cold presence to "Bed and Board" (1970, easily the weakest of the entries in the series). The final installment, "Love on the Run" (1979), was a modest effort.
- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
- Marie-Georges-Jean Méliès (; French: [meljɛs]; 8 December 1861 – 21 January 1938), was a French illusionist and film director who led many technical and narrative developments in the earliest days of cinema. Méliès was well-known for the use of special effects, popularizing such techniques as substitution splices, multiple exposures, time-lapse photography, dissolves, and hand-painted colour. He was also one of the first filmmakers to use storyboards. His films include A Trip to the Moon (1902) and The Impossible Voyage (1904), both involving strange, surreal journeys somewhat in the style of Jules Verne, and are considered among the most important early science fiction films, though their approach is closer to fantasy.
- Birthplace: France, Paris
- Nationality: France
- Although he harbored a desire to act, Jean Marais was rejected by the top drama schools in France. The son of a doctor from whom his mother separated in 1917, he came to the attention of film director Maurice L'Herbier who cast him in small roles in "L'Epervier" and "L'Aventurier" (both 1933). Marais worked at the theater run by Charles Dullin in return for acting classes and a chance to play minor stage roles. In 1937, the actor met the man who would change his life--poet, playwright and designer Jean Cocteau. They became lovers and Cocteau began to utilize the handsome Marais in various stage productions like "Oedipe Roi" and as Sir Galahad in "Les Chevaliers de la table rond." The writer created the role of the smothered son in "Les Parents terribles" especially for the actor, which proved an artistic high point for both. With his striking looks, ethereal charm and vulnerability, Marais proved a perfect choice to embody Cocteau's tragic heroes. He first made his mark in the author's retelling of the Tristan and Isolde myth in "L'Eternal retourne/The Eternal Return" (1943), directed by Jean Delannoy. But perhaps their best-known collaboration remains the poetic masterpiece "La Belle et la bete/Beauty and the Beast" (1945). Of their remaining films together, the 1948 version of "Les parents terribles" ranks as the best. By the time of "Orphee" (1949), their personal relationship was ending, although they remained close friends. The 1950s saw Marais undertake swashbuckling roles and become France's version of Errol Flynn in a number of popular but critically-derided vehicles like "The Count of Monte Cristo" (1954) and "Le Bossu" (1959). On the advice of Cocteau, he accepted the role of "Fantomas" in the 1964 remake and went on to essay the athletic master criminal in several sequels. In 1970, Jacques Demy tapped him to appear as the widowed king seeking a new queen in the fairy tale "Peau d'ane/Donkey Skin," which was an homage to Cocteau. By then, though, his film career was all but over and Marais returned to the stage, reviving Cocteau plays and appearing as "King Lear." He reteamed with Demy to play the Devil in "Parking" (1985), an ill-advised musical version of "Orphee." His last screen appearances were in Claude Lelouch's "Les Miserables" (1994) and Bernardo Bertolucci's "Stealing Beauty" (1995).
- Birthplace: Cherbourg, France
- Nationality: France
Carlos Antonio
Opposite Day, You Move Me, Conquest of AmericaCarlos Antonio is an actor.- Birthplace: Washington, D.C., USA
- Nationality: France, United States of America
Jean Martin
The Day of the Jackal, The Battle of Algiers, My Name Is NobodyJean Martin was an actor who appeared in "The Battle of Algiers," "Le Roi et l'oiseau," and "The Day of the Jackal."- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
Brigitte Catillon
Tell No One, A Heart in Winter, AfterwardsBrigitte Catillon was an actress who had a successful Hollywood career. Early on in her acting career, Catillon landed roles in various films, including "Monsieur Papa" (1977), "Haro" (1978) and "Moments de la vie d'une femme" (1979). She also appeared in "Le Point douloureux" (1979), "Le Quart d'Heure Americain" (1982) and "Moliere" (1986) with Philippe Caubere. Her film career continued throughout the nineties in productions like the drama "Voyager" (1992) with Sam Shepard, the drama "Un Coeur en Hiver" (1993) with Daniel Auteuil and the Arnaud Giovaninetti action flick "J'Irai au Paradis, Car L'Enfer est Ici" (1997). Recently, she tackled roles in the Barbora Bobulova drama "The Spectator" (2004), the Gregoire Colin foreign "A Sight for Sore Eyes" (2004) and the Michel Vuillermoz comedy "Sœurs Fâchées" (2004). She also appeared in "Frankie" (2006) and "True Enough" (2007). Catillon most recently acted in the biopic drama "Marie's Story" (2015) with Ariana Rivoire.- Birthplace: France
- Nationality: France
- Veteran supporting actor Reni Santoni, best known for his role as Poppie on the series "Seinfeld," appeared consistently on television throughout his career while also putting in solid work in feature films. Santoni has spent the majority of his career relegated to supporting roles in a number of film and TV parts. He has appeared in various genres, from comedy films such as "Brewster's Millions" with Richard Pryor, to more dramatic work, such as the crime drama "Bad Boys." Santoni worked with many top-name stars in his career including Clint Eastwood on the gritty crime drama "Dirty Harry," Steve Martin in the comedy "Dead Men Don't Wear Plaid," and Sylvester Stallone in the action flick "Cobra." Santoni's most popular role, though, was on the long-running sitcom "Seinfeld" as the explosive, pro-life chef Poppie, who verbally sparred with leading man Jerry Seinfeld in hilarious fashion on multiple occasions. While Santoni's steadiest work came on television, he has appeared in such notable films as the high-school comedy "Can't Hardly Wait," and alongside shock jock Howard Stern in his biopic "Private Parts." Santoni has also worked as voice actor through his career, providing voices on the Michael J. Fox drama "Bright Lights, Big City" in 1988 and later on the "Doctor Dolittle" film series starring Eddie Murphy. Reni Santoni died on August 1, 2020 at the age of 81.
- Birthplace: New York, New York, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
Cyrielle Clair
Sword of the Valiant, The Professional, Triple AgentCyrielle Clair (born 1 December 1955) is a French actress. She has appeared in 55 films and television shows since 1978. She starred in the 1983 film La Belle captive, which was entered into the 33rd Berlin International Film Festival.- Birthplace: France, Paris
- Nationality: France
Josette Day
Beauty and the Beast, The Well-Digger's Daughter, Lucrezia BorgiaJosette Day (Paris, July 31, 1914 - Paris, June 27, 1978) was a French film actress. Born Josette Noëlle Andrée Claire Dagory, she began her career as an actress in 1919 at the age of five. When she was eighteen, Day was the mistress of Paul Morand and later was in a relationship with famous French writer and director Marcel Pagnol, whom she met in January 1939 and lasted part of World War II. She did not marry him In 1946, she played her best-known role, alongside Jean Marais, as Belle in Jean Cocteau's 1946 film Beauty and the Beast. Her films include Allo Berlin? Ici Paris! (1932), The Merry Monarch (based on Les Aventures du roi Pausole) (1933), Lucrèce Borgia (1935), L'homme du jour (1937), Accord final (1938), La Belle et la Bête (1946) and Les Parents terribles (1948). Despite numerous parts in famous French films, Day ended her career as an actress in 1950 when only 36 years old. She retired to marry wealthy chemical businessman, Maurice Solvay (descendant of Ernest Solvay, founder of the notable Solvay company). In February 1959 while on cruise in the Pacific, she and Solvay met a Tahitian girl at a Papeete market named Hinano Tiatia, whom the couple took under legal guardianship and who was the center of Solvay's inheritance dispute having not been formally adopted at the time of his sudden death in 1960.- Birthplace: France, Paris
- Nationality: France
Thomas Vincent
Thomas Vincent is a French film director, screenwriter and actor. His 1999 film Karnaval was entered into the 49th Berlin International Film Festival where it won the Alfred Bauer Prize.- Birthplace: France, Juvisy-sur-Orge
- Nationality: France
Hubert Deschamps
The Fire Within, Hats Off, Zazie dans le MétroHubert Deschamps was an actor who appeared in "Tendre Poulet," "La Gueule ouverte," and "Coup de tête."- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
Jules Sitruk
March of the Penguins, Son of Rambow, French ExchangeJules Sitruk (born April 16, 1990 in Lilas, near Paris) is a French actor, most widely known for his roles in the 2002 Jugnot film Monsieur Batignole and the 2007 Hammer & Tongs film Son of Rambow. Sitruk began acting at the age of 8, after being cast at his hairdressers. His first feature film was Monsieur Batignole (2001) with Gérard Jugnot, who acknowledged his talent amongst other young French actors at the time. Other films include Moi César (2003), Vipère au poing (2004) and Les Aiguilles rouges (2005). Sitruk is also one of the three narrators in the original first-person version of March of the Penguins. His first English language film was Son of Rambow, filmed in London in 2006.- Birthplace: France, Les Lilas
- Nationality: France
Dominique Zardi
The Longest Day, Delicatessen, Pierrot le FouDominique Zardi (born Emile Jean Cohen-Zardi) (2 March 1930, Paris – 13 December 2009) was a French actor. He acted in more than 600 films, including Fantômas with Louis De Funès and Jean Marais. He died of cancer at the age of 79.- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Nationality: France
Oliver Mathot
The Night of the Generals, Crimson, The Upper HandOlivier Mathot is an actor and director. He was born on June 22, 1924 in Paris, France.- Birthplace: France, Paris
- Nationality: France
Giselle Pascal
Endless Horizons, Le Masque de fer, La Belle aventureGisèle Pascal (17 September 1921 – 2 February 2007) was a French actress and a former lover of Rainier III, Prince of Monaco. She was born Gisèle Marie Madeleine Tallone at Cannes in France. Her first movie role was in 1942's L'Arlésienne. For six years, she was involved in a relationship with Prince Rainier, and lived together in a villa in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Princess Antoinette, Baroness of Massy, Rainier's sister, seeking to obtain the throne of Monaco for her own son, spread malicious rumors that Pascal was incapable of bearing children. A contemplated marriage was called off when a medical examination reported that she was infertile.Pascal subsequently married actor Raymond Pellegrin on 8 October 1955 and had a daughter, Pascale Pellegrin, on 12 September 1962.- Birthplace: Cannes, France
- Nationality: France
- Shanice Marcus is a French actress and model, known her portrayal of Nicole in the film Nos 18 ans.
- Birthplace: Nice, France
- Nationality: France
François-Alexandre Galepides
Irma la Douce, Zorro, RamuntchoMoustache was an actor.- Birthplace: France, Paris
- Nationality: France
- Jérémie Elkaïm (born 29 August 1978) is a French actor, screenwriter and film director best known for his role in Presque rien (US title: Come Undone, 2000). In the film, he plays Mathieu, a troubled, emotionally fragile teen who finds himself in a whirlwind romance with Cédric (played by Stéphane Rideau). His performance in the film garnered him much critical acclaim. Other notable films starring the actor include the comedy teen flick Sexy Boys (2001), which is touted to be the French version of American Pie, À cause d'un garçon (U.S. title: You'll Get Over It, 2002), where he plays yet another gay teenager, and Mariées mais pas trop in which he plays an insurance investigator. His latest role was the lead in the comedy film Les Bêtises. He has also appeared in television, as 30-year-old Paul Delorme in the TV series Le Bureau (2006), the French version of The Office currently seen on Canal+. Paul often plays pranks on officemate Joël Liotard (Benoît Carré), and shows a level of attraction towards receptionist Laetitia Kadiri (Anne-Laure Balbir). His character is the French equivalent of the British version's Tim Canterbury (played by Martin Freeman) and the American version's Jim Halpert (played by John Krasinski).
- Birthplace: France, Paris
- Nationality: France
Rachel Desmarest
A Very Long Engagement, Micmacs, The Big PictureRachel Desmarest is a casting director and actress.- Birthplace: England
- Nationality: France, United Kingdom
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