Sophia Loren – The Barefoot Peasant
At the age of just 23, Sophia Loren headed to Hollywood to make her dream come true. However, her career only really took off three years later with the Franco-Italian film “The Barefoot Peasant”.Sophia Loren earned her status as an international film star during the 60s and 70s. She took a break during the 80s before making her return to cinema in 1990 with the feature film “Samedi, dimanche et lundi”. Since then, she has appeared in just eight films over a period of more than 30 years.
Sophia Loren – The Barefoot Peasant
Sophie Davant – C’est au programme
Sophie Davant occupies a significant place in the French audiovisual landscape. She has left her mark on several programs she has hosted, such as “Fort Boyard”, “Toute une histoire” and “C’est au programme”, thanks to her talent, humor and benevolence.Since 2017, she has hosted the program “Affaire conclue” on France 2 during the afternoons, which further strengthens her connection with viewers. It’s safe to say that Sophie Davant has no plans to retire.
Sophie Davant – C’est Au Programme
Évelyne Dhéliat – TF1 Weatherwoman
Évelyne Dhéliat, daughter of a French father and a German mother, was born in Cologne, but grew up in Paris. After studying English at the Sorbonne, she began her television career in 1968 as a announcer at ORTF, which was transformed into TF1 in 1975, where Évelyne Dhéliat rose to prominence, presenting programs such as “Le concours de l’Eurovision”. In 1985, she was awarded the “7 d’or” for best announcer. Over time, she evolved into TF1’s star weather presenter, a role she still plays today.
Évelyne Dhéliat – TF1 Weatherwoman
Claire Chazal – TF1 Weekend News
Claire Chazal, a talented journalist and an exceptional television woman, has left her indelible mark on the history of television news in France. She was at the helm of TF1’s Friday evening and weekend newscasts for 24 years, quite a feat given the difficulty and demands of the job. Her status transcends that of a mere journalist, so much so that she has made remarkable appearances in several films playing her own character. Her competence and kindness have elevated her to the status of a true star of French television, and she remains very active on screen, particularly on France 3 with “Le grand échiquier”.
Claire Chazal – JT Du Weekend De TF1
Michèle Torr – Emmène-moi danser ce soir
When Michèle Torr released her first album, C’est dur d’avoir 16 ans, in 1964, it was an instant hit. She was undoubtedly one of the major stars of the yéyé era. Her triumph continued into the 70s, when she unveiled her most famous song, Emmène-moi danser ce soir, and took part in the Age tendre et têtes de bois tour in 2000 and 2010, which brought her dozens of concerts. She’s very happy about this, as it gave her the chance to relive her glory years.
Michèle Torr – Emmène Moi Danser Ce Soir
Macha Méril – Sans toit ni loi
Macha Méril is one of those actresses who has managed to reinvent herself over the decades, despite a career that began in the late 50s. She oscillated between cinema and television for decades, appearing in films such as “Belle de jour” and series such as Les Enquêtes du commissaire Maigret. In 1986, she was even nominated for a César for Best Actress for her performance in “Sans toit ni loi”. In recent years, she has made her mark on television. Indeed, she has appeared in around ten series over the past decade.
Macha Méril – Sans Toit Ni Loi
Brigitte Bardot – And God… created woman
Brigitte Bardot entered the world of cinema in the early 1950s, immediately attracting attention for her beauty. She established herself as a supreme icon in 1956 when she played a role in Roger Vadim’s film “Et Dieu… créa la femme”. Her career then took off, with a succession of songs and films amplifying her worldwide fame. Her last feature film was in 1973, and since then she has devoted all her time and energy to defending animal rights. In fact, she is only seen in the media to talk about this very theme, as if her previous acting career no longer mattered to her.
Brigitte Bardot – And God… Created Woman
Sophie Marceau – La boum
Sophie Marceau has been perceived as France’s favorite female personality for many years. Audiences first discovered and embraced the artist in her first feature film, “La boum”, released in 1980. Sophie Marceau continues to attract the attention of directors, which has facilitated her participation in four films in the last three years, including “I Love America” and “Tout s’est bien passé”. However, she recently confessed that she was thinking of ending her career.
Sophie Marceau – La Boum
Alexandra Lamy – Un gars, une fille
Alexandra Lamy’s career took off a little later than most actresses. She was 28 when she was selected for the role of Chouchou in the comedy series “Un gars, une fille” broadcast on France 2. The series was an extraordinary success, and opened her up to the seventh art. She went on to play a number of film roles, navigating with ease between comedies and dramas. She remains the public’s favorite actress, and producers value this quality in her. That’s why she can also be seen on screen, with three films in 2023.
Alexandra Lamy – Un Gars, Une Fille
Christophe Dechavanne – Ciel, mon mardi!
Christophe Dechavanne is one of the hosts who have left a significant mark on the history of French television. His outspokenness and sense of humor have made him a singular individual whom viewers adore. He has hosted countless hit shows, including Ciel, mon mardi! Hello, c’est nous! Since 2022, he has held the position of lead commentator on Quelle époque! as well as taking part in other programs such as La ferme célébrités , among others.On est là pour vous is the program hosted by Léa Salamé that has taken over from On n’est pas couchés on Saturday nights on France 2. It’s a fairly new role for him, but he’s settled in wonderfully well.
Christophe Dechavanne – Ciel, Mon Mardi!
Denise Fabre – Madame êtes-vous libre?
Few people know it, but Denise Fabre had the opportunity to serve as maid of honor to Walt Disney and his wife during their stay in Nice, when she was just 16. She almost left for the United States with them, but was too young to make such an extreme decision. Surely she doesn’t regret this decision, as staying in France has enabled her to live a dream existence. In fact, in the 70s, she established herself as TF1’s star presenter thanks to shows such as Madame êtes-vous libre? Since 2009, she has devoted herself to directing the Âge tendre and Têtes de bois tours.
Denise Fabre – Madame êtes Vous Libre
Marlène Jobert – Masculin féminin
It was at the age of 23 that Marlène Jobert caught the eye of renowned director Jean-Luc Godard. Dazzled by her natural splendor, he selected her to star in his “Masculin féminin”, where she shared the screen with the famous Brigitte Bardot. Marlène Jobert’s career peaked in the 70s, and by the mid-80s she had opted to reduce the frequency of her appearances in order to devote more time to her private life. In recognition of his entire career, he was awarded the César d’honneur in 2007. Since putting an end to her film career, she has had the chance to devote herself to another passion: writing children’s stories.
Marlène Jobert – Masculin Féminin
Elsa Lunghini – Elsa
With a career spanning 55 years, 1,200 songs to her credit and worldwide celebrity status… We’re talking about Mireille Mathieu, of course! One of the most famous and listened-to French artists in the world. She shot to fame with “Mon credo”, her first hit in 1966. Since then, the singer with the remarkable voice has racked up countless gold discs. Her many songs, including La dernière valse and Mille colombes, continue to be covered in France and abroad. Given her age, it’s natural that she’s less active than before; her latest opus, Mes classiques, dates back to 2018.
Elsa Lunghini – Elsa
Patricia Kaas – Mon mec à moi
Patricia Kaas’ breakthrough came in 1988 with the release of her first album, featuring hits such as “Mon mec à moi” and “Mademoiselle chante le blues”. She was also named revelation of the year at the Victoires de la Musique awards. The 1990s and 2000s were also fruitful years for Patricia Kaas, with further triumphs including her 2008 album “Kabaret”. She has sold almost 20 million albums in the course of her career, but has no intention of stopping there. She declares that she will continue to make music for as long as she is able.
Patricia Kaas – Mon Mec à Moi
Jacques Charrier – Les tricheurs
True film fans, especially those with a good knowledge of black-and-white films, are well aware of Jacques Charrier’s influence on the French cinematic landscape. He was a veritable icon from the late ’50s to the early ’70s. In addition to his film career, he is also renowned for his relationship with the greatest French star of his time: Brigitte Bardot. Despite his success, Jacques Charrier chose to interrupt his acting career prematurely to devote himself to painting.
Jacques Charrier – The Cheaters
Brigitte Fossey – Forbidden Games
Brigitte Fossey had a very special start to her career. She made her screen debut at just 5 years of age in the film Jeux interdits , a performance that won her the Best Actress award at the Venice Film Festival. Brigitte Fossey, despite her extremely long career, still has a strong desire to act. She is still very active in the world of film, television and theater. To illustrate, she recently toured France with the play “Je t’écris moi non plus”.
Brigitte Fossey – Forbidden Games
Bob Sinclar – Love generation
Bob Sinclar is one of France’s most famous and internationally acclaimed DJs. He cultivated his gift for many years, having been passionate about electronic music since the age of 17, before unveiling his first album in 1998. Seven years later, he became a global celebrity with his hit “Love Generation”, and since then has released a number of tracks that have intoxicated dancefloors around the world, such as “World Hold On” and “Rock This Party”. Although his last studio album dates from 2013, he continues to release tracks and perform every year.
Bob Sinclar – Love Generation
Anny Duperey – Stavisky
Early in her career, Anny Duperey juggled television and theater. Her first significant film role came in 1967. Her next success came in “Stavisky”, alongside Jean-Paul Belmondo. Anny Duperey doesn’t appear as frequently on the silver screen as she used to, but she continues to shoot on a regular basis. She recently starred in the film “Sur les chemins noirs” and took part in the fifth season of the entertainment show “Mask Singer”.
Anny Duperey – Stavisky
Eddy Mitchell – No Boogie Woogie
When we think of the French rock scene, Eddy Mitchell’s name is often one of the first to spring to mind. He even led the first French rock band, “Les chaussettes noires”, but as early as 1962, he opted for a solo career. Over the course of his artistic career, Eddy Mitchell released over thirty albums, leaving his mark on French music thanks to his American influences. He has chosen to put an end to his live performances, but that doesn’t stop him from releasing a new album almost every three years.
Eddy Mitchell – Pas De Boogie Woogie
Évelyne Leclercq – Tournez manège!
Évelyne Leclercq began her career in television in the early 70s, but it was hosting the iconic show “Tournez manège!” in the 80s that really put her on the map. She became TF1’s leading star. She ran the show with great success for eight years. Although Évelyne Leclercq hasn’t been on screen for a few years, she remains very committed, particularly to community work. Since 2007, she has sponsored the association “Le lever de soleil des pit’chounes”, which supports children affected by rare or orphan diseases.
Évelyne Leclercq – Tournez Manège !
Francis Huster – Le dîner de cons
Francis Huster is the epitome of a passionate actor. The way he talks about his profession on TV gives the impression that his work is the center of his life. He is an expert in the works of illustrious authors, whose works he adapts for the stage. Over the course of his 50-year career, he has appeared in countless films, TV series and plays. He is a great actor who will persist in acting until he is physically unable to do so. Francis Huster is still a long way from retirement.
Francis Huster – Le Dîner De Cons
Line Renaud – Snow Star
What can we say about Line Renaud? Thanks to her impressive longevity and versatility, she is one of the most emblematic figures in the French media panorama. She launched her career in 1944 and enjoyed her first major triumph in 1950 with “Étoile des neiges”. Line Renaud, who continues to blaze her artistic trail through song, theater and film, could have been content with her achievements. However, she chooses to remain active and support important causes. She has been a major player in the fight against AIDS since the 80s, orchestrating dedicated events.
Line Renaud – Étoile Des Neiges
Mimie Mathy – Josephine Guardian Angel
For many years now, Mimie Mathy has been a much-loved figure among the French, and not without good reason. Since 1997, she has played the role of Joséphine in “Joséphine, ange gardien”, a testament to the series’ enormous popularity over the years. Her professional career doesn’t stop there, as she appears regularly in other TV productions such as “I love you coiffure” in 2020 and “Le prix de la trahison” in 2022. What’s more, she is one of the artists most involved with the Restos du cœur, a further testament to her kindness and solicitude.
Mimie Mathy – Joséphine Ange Gardien
Gérard Depardieu – Les valseuses
Gérard Depardieu achieved his first success with the film “Les valseuses”, released in 1974. He is now considered an icon of French cinema and one of the most respected actors of recent decades. Thanks to his talent, he even managed to break into Hollywood, starring in films such as “Green Card” and “The Man in the Iron Mask”, and his outstanding performances have won him numerous awards, including a César and a Golden Globe. Despite all his triumphs, his passion for his art has not wavered, prompting him to make several films each year.
Gérard Depardieu – Les Valseuses
Gérard Jugnot – Les bronzés
Gérard Jugnot began his career in theater, as a member of the Splendid troupe, and it wasn’t long before success followed, but this time on the big screen, still in the company of his Splendid companions. “Les bronzés” was a resounding triumph in cinemas. Gérard Jugnot was thrust into the spotlight, launching his career. Thanks to the diversity of his skills, he has consistently managed to juggle dramatic roles such as “Les choristes”. Despite his age, he continues to shine as an actor and remains a leading figure in the cinema, always delighting his admirers.
Gérard Jugnot – The Bronzés
Hervé Vilard – Capri c’est fini
From the age of 14, Hervé Vilard began to consider a career in music. Michèle Torr and Christophe were his first supporters, and the first resounding triumph came with the hit “Capri, c’est fini”. Since then, he has enjoyed a string of hits, with titles such as “Nous”, “Reviens” and “Méditerranéenne”.Throughout his career, he has sold over 40 million albums and collaborated with the most renowned composers. In 2020, he published an autobiographical work entitled “Du lierre dans les arbres”, in which he revealed himself as never before.
Hervé Vilard – Capri C’est Fini
Marthe Villalonga – Un élément ça trompe énormément
Marthe Villalonga began her theatrical career in the late 50s, before moving on to television and film. It was in the 70s that her career really took off, thanks to such hit films as “Le clair de terre”, “Un élément ça trompe énormément” and “Ma saison préférée”.Throughout her career, Marthe Villalonga has perfectly portrayed the role of Jewish mother or grandmother, consolidating her position in the affections of a large number of French people. Despite her advanced age, she remains as passionate as ever about her profession, and continues to be a leading figure in film, television and theater.
Marthe Villalonga – An element that deceives enormously
Jacques Dutronc – Et moi, et moi, et moi
Jacques Dutronc began his musical career in the 60s with hits such as “Et moi, et moi, et moi” and “Il est cinq heures, Paris s’éveille”. He also had a successful film career, starring in films such as “Place Vendôme” and “Van Gogh”, the latter earning him the César for Best Actor in 1992.Jacques Dutronc also formed a musical group with Johnny Hallyday and Eddy Mitchell, with whom he gave numerous concerts. In 2017, for example, “Les vieilles canailles” presented a series of shows that delighted several generations of music fans.
Jacques Dutronc – Et Moi, Et Moi, Et Moi
Michel Sardou – La maladie d’amour
Michel Sardou is a renowned artist who has touched many generations with songs such as “La maladie d’amour”, “Je vais t’aimer” and “Les lacs du Connemara”. His rise to fame began in the 70s, and he hasn’t been successful since. His latest release is a live album entitled “La dernière danse”. With his enduring career and outstanding success, Michel Sardou has earned his place among France’s most illustrious artists.
Michel Sardou – La Maladie D’amour
Nathalie Roussel – Guy de Maupassant
Nathalie Roussel first came to prominence at the age of 18, thanks to her performance in “Les violons du bal”. However, it’s the small screen that has given her the most characters throughout her career. She particularly distinguished herself in “Guy de Maupassant”. She then concentrated her efforts on the theater, where she was fortunate enough to collaborate with eminent directors. Since 2021, Nathalie Roussel’s career has taken on a new lease of life. Indeed, she plays Florence Gallo, the older version of the main character, in the Franco-Belgian series “Je te promets”. It’s a testament that when talent is present, opportunities can present themselves at any moment.
Nathalie Roussel – Guy De Maupassant
Pierre Richard – The Goat
Pierre Richard is one of the most remarkable French actors of his generation. His gift was so genuine that audiences couldn’t help but empathize with his characters. La chèvre”, “Les fugitifs” and “Les compères” can be mentioned as some of his most notable films, all released in the 70’s and 80’s. In recognition of his outstanding career, he was awarded an honorary César in 2006, a rare distinction for an actor. And to prove that he has lost none of his splendor, he was awarded the Molière for solo performance in 2020. This accolade proves that his talent as an actor has remained unscathed despite the years that have passed.
Pierre Richard – The Goat
Claire Nadeau – Les Tuche
Claire Nadeau has appeared in popular comedies such as “Les visiteurs 2”, “On connaît la chanson” and “Les Tuche”. On the theatrical front, she won the Molière for Best Supporting Actress in 2010, after being nominated several times. Despite her long career spanning more than fifty years and her age, Claire Nadeau’s enduring gift means that she remains in great demand among directors. In 2023, for example, she was active in film, television and theater.
Claire Nadeau – Les Tuche
Marcel Amont – Tout doux, tout doucement
It’s impossible to mention music-hall in France without mentioning Marcel Amont, as he played a major role in spreading this musical genre. Over the course of his career, he produced 32 albums and over 800 musical numbers. Marcel Amont’s hits include “Tout doux, tout doucement” and “Un mexicain basané”, to name but a few. What’s particularly commendable about him is his persistent desire to continue his career. In fact, despite his advanced age, he remains active. For example, in 2021, he released his first work of fiction, “Adieu la belle Marguerite”. What he has achieved shows that it’s never too late to realize one’s aspirations.
Marcel Amont – Tout Doux, Tout Doucement
François Valéry – Dream in Blue
In his youth, François Valéry aspired to be a footballer. However, his plans changed after his mother gave him a guitar for his birthday. His first triumph came at the age of 20 with “Une chanson d’été”, and in the ’80s he distinguished himself with hits such as “Disco Brasilia” and “Aimons-nous vivants”. “Dream in Blue”, a collaboration with Sophie Marceau, remains his greatest triumph to this day. Even after all these years, François Valéry’s 2019 concert series is a testament to his undiminished passion, just as it was in his early days.
François Valéry – Dream In Blue
Eva Green – Innocents
Having a leading actress and beauty icon like Marlène Jobert for a mother is no easy task. It’s true that it’s a heavy burden to bear, but it’s fair to say that Eva Green has managed to stand out from the crowd, having forged an excellent reputation for herself in the film industry. With her stunning beauty and performances in films such as “Innocents” and “Sin City”, she has become one of the most revered actresses of her generation. She has a busy schedule in 2023, with several films to her credit, including “The Three Musketeers”.
Eva Green – Innocents
Claude Sarraute – Big heads
Claude Sarraute is a French journalist who has left her mark on both radio and television. She is renowned for having been one of the leading columnists on popular shows such as “Les Grosses Têtes”, “On a tout essayé” and also “On va s’ gêner”. She has thus worked in collaboration with such renowned figures as Philippe Bouvard and Laurent Ruquier. Claude Sarraute is also an author who has written fourteen books, many of them autobiographical. Today, following a remarkable and lengthy career, she has chosen to put an end to her career in order to rest and enjoy time with her family.
Claude Sarraute – Les Grosses Têtes
Patrick Sébastien – Le plus grand cabaret du monde
When Patrick Sébastien began his career in 1974 as an imitator and comedian, he had no idea that he would become one of the most important and longest-running hosts and producers on French television. He is the creator of such iconic shows as “Le grand bluff” and “Le plus grand cabaret du monde”. In addition to his role as host, which he continues to perform, he is also a regular TV personality and singer, with albums released on a regular basis. Thanks to the variety of his talent, he occupies a singular position in the hearts of the French.
Patrick Sébastien – Le Plus Grand Cabaret Du Monde
Michel Drucker – Vivement dimanche
Michel Drucker is inseparable from French television. He is an emblematic figure on the French media scene, and no one can dispute his status. In fact, everyone loves him. He has had the good fortune to produce several programs that have left a deep imprint on generations, such as “Champs-Élysées”, “Stars 90” and “Vivement dimanche”.Michel Drucker, despite his advanced age and certain health problems in recent years, continues to look to the future. One might think that he would like to end his career, but he has said that he aims to continue for another ten years or so.
Michel Drucker – Vivement Dimanche
Patrick Bruel
Patrick Bruel, musical icon and youth role model for an entire generation, is recognized as one of France’s leading artists. He has a wide range of hit songs, including “Place des grands hommes”, “J’ te l’ dis quand même” and “Qui a le droit”.Patrick Bruel is also an actor with a remarkable filmography. He has appeared in several acclaimed feature films, including “Marche à l’ombre” and “Le prénom”, the latter earning him a nomination for the César for Best Actor. Almost forty years after his debut, he’s not thinking about retirement. In 2022, he released a new album entitled “Encore une fois”.
Patrick Bruel
Simone Garnier – Tournez Manèges
Simone Garnier found her inspiration for television at an early age, admiring the talent of announceresses such as Jacqueline Joubert. Her aspirations were also realized when she was around 23, when she landed a job as a announcer at Télé-Lyon. However, it was as a presenter that she really shone during her career, thanks in particular to programs such as “Intervilles”, “Jeux sans frontières” and “Tournez manège”. She retired from the media world after 1991, and now lives with her husband.
Simone Garnier – Tournez Manèges