Here are 5 famous actors from Belgium were born in 1973:
Fabrizio Rongione (March 3, 1973 Brussels-) is a Belgian actor, screenwriter and film producer.
He is best known for his collaborations with Belgian directors Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne, having appeared in several of their films including "La Promesse", "Rosetta", and "The Kid with a Bike". Rongione has also worked with other prominent directors such as Joachim Lafosse and Xavier Dolan. In addition to acting, he has written and produced a number of films, including "Tokyo Anyway" and "Keeper". Rongione has received critical acclaim for his performances and has been nominated for several awards, including a Magritte Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in "Two Days, One Night".
Rongione studied film and theater at the Institut National Supérieur des Arts du Spectacle et des Techniques de Diffusion in Brussels. His collaboration with the Dardennes began in 1996 with "The Promise." His work with them has been praised for its raw, naturalistic style and his ability to inhabit complex characters. Rongione has also been recognized for his activism, having been involved with organizations such as Amnesty International and actively supporting refugees and migrants. In 2019, he was appointed as the president of the jury for the FIFF Namur Festival.
Rongione's career in the film industry began with small roles in a number of Belgian films in the early 1990s. His breakthrough came when he was cast in the lead role in the Dardenne Brothers' film "The Promise", which won the Golden Camera award at the Cannes Film Festival in 1996. This role marked the beginning of his long-standing collaboration with the acclaimed directors, which has resulted in a number of critically acclaimed films.
Aside from his work onscreen, Rongione has also worked as a writer and producer. His first feature film as a writer, "Tokyo Anyway", was released in 2012 and received positive reviews. He has also produced several films, including "Keeper", which he co-wrote and produced with Lafosse.
In addition to his film work, Rongione has also been involved in activism, specifically in support of refugees and migrants. He has been an ambassador for Caritas International, an organization that works to alleviate the suffering of refugees and migrants around the world. Rongione has also been an advocate of fair trade and environmentally sustainable practices and has been recognized for his work in these areas.
With a career spanning several decades, Rongione continues to be an influential figure in European cinema. His nuanced performances, combined with his commitment to social and environmental causes, have cemented his status as one of Belgium's most respected actors.
Rongione's dedication to humanitarian causes extends beyond his role as an ambassador for Caritas International. In 2015, he co-founded the non-profit organization Objectif, which seeks to promote culture, education, and solidarity through film screenings, discussions, and workshops. The organization also works to provide support to disadvantaged communities, including refugees and the homeless. Through Objectif, Rongione has organized film screenings in refugee camps and collaborated with NGOs to provide cultural activities and education programs for children in need.
In addition to his film and activism work, Rongione is also a teacher at INSAS, the film academy where he studied in Brussels. He has been teaching courses in acting and screenwriting since 2020, passing on his knowledge and passion for cinema to the next generation of filmmakers.
Rongione has been recognized for his contributions to the film industry, receiving the Trophée René Branquart for his acting work and the Prix des Artistes for his overall career in 2019. His latest project, "Le bonheur des uns...", a comedy directed by Daniel Cohen, was released in France in 2020 to positive reviews.
Rongione's passion for film began at an early age, and he made his first short film at the age of 14. After completing his studies at the Institut National Supérieur des Arts du Spectacle et des Techniques de Diffusion, he went on to work as a production assistant and casting director before making his breakthrough as an actor.
Apart from his numerous film roles, Rongione has also acted in theater productions, working with renowned Belgian companies such as Théâtre de la Place and Théâtre Les Tanneurs. He has also lent his voice to several animated films, including "The Dreaming Machine" and "Ernest & Celestine".
In addition to his film and activism work, Rongione is also a talented musician, playing the accordion and guitar. He has performed in several concerts and festivals, accompanied by other musicians.
With his dedication to social and environmental causes, Rongione is not only a talented actor and filmmaker but also an inspiring humanitarian. His multi-faceted career is a testament to his creativity, versatility, and commitment to making the world a better place.
François Damiens (January 17, 1973 Uccle-) also known as François L'Embrouille, Francois L'Embrouille or Brian Courts is a Belgian actor, comedian and voice actor.
He began his career as a street performer before transitioning to television and film. Damiens is known for his hidden camera pranks and comedy sketches which often involve him playing outrageous characters. He has appeared in numerous films and television shows in France and Belgium, including "Heartbreaker" and "The Belier Family". Damiens has also provided voice work for several animated films such as "The BFG" and "Despicable Me 3". In 2012, he won the Magritte Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in the film "The Giants". Damiens continues to be a popular figure in Belgian and French entertainment, with his unique brand of humor and wit.
In addition to his acting and comedy career, François Damiens has also worked as a radio host and DJ. He has released several albums featuring his music and collaborations with other artists. Damiens is also known for his philanthropic work, and has been involved with several charitable organizations throughout his career. He is a father of three children and is known for being extremely private about his personal life. Despite this, he has a large following on social media and continues to entertain his fans with his comedic talents.
Damiens has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including multiple nominations for the César Award for Best Supporting Actor. He has also been honored with the title of Chevalier of the Order of the Crown and Officer of the Order of Leopold II for his contributions to Belgian culture.
Outside of his work in entertainment, Damiens is an avid sport enthusiast and has participated in several endurance races, including triathlons and marathons. He is also a supporter of environmental causes and has been involved in efforts to promote sustainable living and reduce waste.
Despite his success and fame, Damiens remains grounded and committed to his craft. He is known for his humble demeanor and down-to-earth personality, and is admired by many for his talent and dedication to his profession. With his infectious energy and infectious sense of humor, François Damiens continues to be one of the most beloved figures in Belgian and French entertainment.
In 2017, François Damiens made his American film debut in the comedy film "Downsizing", directed by Alexander Payne and starring Matt Damon. He played the role of Christoph, a friend of Damon's character. The film premiered at the Venice Film Festival and received positive reviews from critics.Damiens is also a polyglot, and is fluent in French, Dutch and English. He has used this skill to his advantage in his comedy sketches, often switching between languages to add humor to his performances. In addition to his acting and comedy career, Damiens has also written and directed several short films. He remains a respected figure in the entertainment industry and continues to inspire aspiring comedians and actors.
In addition to his work in television and film, François Damiens has also made notable appearances on stage. He has performed in several theater productions, including "The Importance of Being Earnest" and "Le Mariage de Figaro". Damiens has received critical acclaim for his performances, with reviewers praising his versatility and range as an actor. He has said that he enjoys working in a variety of mediums, and is always looking for new opportunities to challenge himself and grow as an artist.
One of Damiens' most well-known characters is François L'Embrouille, a mischievous and often obnoxious character who appears in many of his hidden camera pranks. The character has become something of a cultural phenomenon in Belgium and France, with many people recognizing him on the street and requesting a photo or autograph. Despite the character's popularity, Damiens has said that he is always looking for new ways to innovate and create, and does not want to be beholden to any particular character or persona.
Outside of his work in entertainment, Damiens is a committed environmental activist. He has spoken out about the importance of sustainability and eco-friendly living, and has even designed his own line of furniture made from recycled materials. He has also been involved in efforts to promote renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions.
Despite his success and acclaim, Damiens has remained grounded and modest throughout his career. He has said that he is grateful for the opportunities he has had, and is always looking for ways to give back to his community and make a positive impact. With his talent, dedication, and infectious humor, François Damiens is sure to continue entertaining audiences for many years to come.
Wim Stevens (June 6, 1973-) a.k.a. Wim Albert Stevens is a Belgian actor.
He was born in Ghent, Belgium, and began his acting career in the early 2000s. Stevens has appeared in several popular TV shows and movies, including the Flemish TV series "Thuis" and the Belgian crime drama "De Ridder". He has also acted in theater productions and has lent his voice to animated films. In addition to his acting career, Stevens is a trained musician and has released several albums. He is known for his versatility as an actor and his ability to inhabit a wide range of roles.
Stevens studied at the Herman Teirlinck Institute in Antwerp, where he honed his acting skills. After completing his studies, he appeared in a number of theater productions before landing his first TV role in the series "Spoed". He rose to fame in 2009 when he joined the cast of the popular Flemish soap opera "Thuis", playing the role of Tom De Decker. He stayed with the show for six years before leaving to pursue other acting opportunities.
Stevens has won critical acclaim for his performances in a variety of roles, including comedic and dramatic roles. He has received several nominations for his acting work, including a nomination for Best Supporting Actor at the 2013 Ensors Awards for his role in the film "Groenten uit Balen". Stevens is also an accomplished musician and has released several albums under the stage name "Wally".
In addition to his acting and music careers, Stevens is also a passionate advocate for animal rights and has worked with several animal welfare organizations. He is an ambassador for the organization "Animals Lost and Found in Belgium". Stevens is also an active supporter of LGBTQ+ rights and has spoken out about the need for greater acceptance and support for the LGBTQ+ community.
Stevens is also known for his philanthropic work and has been involved in several charitable causes throughout his career. He has participated in several fundraising events for various organizations and has raised substantial amounts of money for causes such as cancer research and children's charities.
In his personal life, Stevens is married to fellow Belgian actress Tine Laureyns, and the couple has two children together. Outside of his acting and music careers, Stevens is an avid sports fan and enjoys playing football and cycling.
As of 2021, Stevens continues to be a prominent figure in the Belgian film and television industry, and his contributions to the arts have earned him a dedicated following of fans both in Belgium and abroad.
Stevens has also made a name for himself as a voice actor, lending his voice to several animated films and television shows. He provided the voice of the character Batty in the Flemish version of the animated movie "Planes". He also voiced the character of Qwinn in the Flemish version of the animated series "Slugterra". Stevens' talent as a voice actor has allowed him to showcase his versatility as a performer, and has expanded his reach beyond live-action roles.
In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, Stevens has also been involved in politics. He was a candidate for the Green Party in the Belgian federal elections in 2019, running for a seat in the Chamber of Representatives. Although he was not elected, Stevens' decision to run for office demonstrated his commitment to making positive changes in his community.
Stevens' dedication to his craft and his causes has earned him numerous accolades and awards throughout his career. In 2020, he received a star on the Ghent Walk of Fame, in recognition of his contributions to the arts. He has also been recognized for his humanitarian efforts, receiving the Golden Heart Award from the Children in Need Foundation in 2017.
As he continues to pursue his passions and advocate for causes important to him, Stevens remains a beloved and inspiring figure in Belgian culture.
Stevens' passion for music began at a young age, and he learned to play the piano and guitar. He released his first album, "Wally: All by Myself" in 2005, which was followed by "Wally: Strange Days" in 2008. His music is a blend of pop and rock, with lyrics that explore themes of love, loss, and self-discovery.
Aside from his work in front of the camera, Stevens has also worked behind the scenes as a writer and director. He co-wrote the script for the film "Niet Schieten" and served as the film's assistant director. The movie, which tells the story of a family's experience during the Brabant Killers' crime wave, was well-received by audiences and critics alike.
Stevens' commitment to animal rights and animal welfare has led him to participate in various campaigns to promote animal welfare. He has worked with organizations such as the World Wildlife Fund and Greenpeace, and has spoken out about the need for greater protections for animals.
In addition to his advocacy work, Stevens is also an active member of the Belgian artistic community and serves as a board member of several cultural organizations. He is a strong advocate for the arts and believes in the importance of supporting artistic expression and creativity.
Despite his many accomplishments, Stevens remains grounded and devoted to his family and community. He is known for his down-to-earth demeanor and his willingness to help others. As he continues to pursue his passions in the arts, music, and activism, Stevens remains a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world.
Christopher Troxler (March 29, 1973 Brussels-) is a Belgian actor.
He was born in Brussels to a Belgian mother and Swiss father. Troxler studied acting at the Royal Conservatory of Brussels and later moved to Paris, where he continued his training at the prestigious Cours Florent.
Troxler began his career in European theater productions before transitioning to film and television. His breakthrough role came in the Belgian movie "The Memory of a Killer" (2003), for which he received critical acclaim.
He has since acted in numerous French, Belgian, and international films, including "Mr. Nobody" (2009), "The Expatriate" (2012), and "The Brand New Testament" (2015). Troxler is also known for his roles in popular television series such as "Le Bureau des Légendes" and "The Tunnel."
In addition to acting, Troxler is a passionate advocate for animal rights and environmental conservation. He is involved with several organizations that promote sustainable living and animal welfare.
Troxler's dedication to environmental causes has also led him to become an ambassador for the United Nations Environment Programme. He frequently speaks at international conferences and events to raise awareness about the importance of protecting the planet. In 2019, Troxler was awarded the Order of the Crown by the Belgian government for his contributions to the arts and the environment. Despite his success in the film and television industry, Troxler remains committed to theater and continues to perform on stage when he can. He is fluent in French, Dutch, English, and German, and has been praised for his ability to seamlessly switch between languages in his acting roles. Troxler currently resides in Brussels with his wife and two children.
Troxler's passion for theater has never waned, and he has been involved in several notable productions. In 2010, he played the lead role in the Belgian adaptation of Arthur Miller's "Death of a Salesman" and received rave reviews for his performance. Troxler has also directed and co-written plays, including "Le Déboulonné," which premiered at the Festival d'Avignon in 2017. In addition to acting and theater work, Troxler is also an accomplished voice actor, having lent his voice to several animated films and TV series.
Outside of his career, Troxler is known for his love of travel and adventure. He has visited all seven continents and has gone on several expeditions to remote areas of the world. Troxler is also an avid cyclist and has participated in several long-distance cycling events to raise awareness for environmental causes.
Despite his busy schedule, Troxler remains dedicated to his family and makes time for his wife and children. He has spoken about the importance of maintaining a balance between work and personal life, and how his family has been the foundation of his success.
In 2020, Troxler was appointed as the Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), where he focuses on raising awareness about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the importance of taking action to address global challenges. Troxler uses his platform to inspire people to make a positive impact in their communities and encourages governments to prioritize solutions that are grounded in human rights and equity. His dedication to social and environmental causes has earned him the respect and admiration of fans and colleagues alike, and he continues to be a role model for those who aspire to make a difference in the world.
Troxler's talent and passion for acting have earned him several awards and nominations throughout his career. In 2003, he won the Best Actor award at the Ghent International Film Festival for his role in "The Memory of a Killer." He also received nominations for Best Supporting Actor for his work in "The Brand New Testament" at the Magritte Awards and the Ensor Awards. In addition to his acting accolades, Troxler was recognized for his theater work with a Best Director nomination at the 2015 Prix de la critique for his production of "Petit Eyolf."
Troxler's advocacy work extends beyond animal rights and environmental conservation. He has also been involved in refugee relief efforts and has worked with organizations such as Doctors Without Borders and Save the Children to provide aid to refugees in crisis zones. In 2016, Troxler participated in a charity bike ride in support of Syrian refugees, cycling 900 kilometers from Brussels to Geneva.
As a polyglot and international actor, Troxler's work has allowed him to bridge cultural divides and promote understanding between different communities. He has spoken about the importance of multiculturalism and diversity in the arts, and how it can enrich and expand the perspectives of audiences around the world. Troxler's commitment to social and environmental justice has made him a respected figure in the entertainment industry and an inspiration to many.
Olivier Bisback (September 30, 1973 Aalst-) is a Belgian actor, stunt performer, personal trainer and martial artist.
He started his career as a martial artist at the young age of 14 and went on to become a multiple-time Belgian champion in karate and kickboxing. He then transitioned to a career in acting and stunts, appearing in numerous films and television shows such as "Transformers: Dark of the Moon", "The Transporter Refueled", and "Zone Stad". Bisback is also a personal trainer and has worked with clients ranging from professional athletes to celebrities. He is known for his dedication to his fitness and nutrition regimen, and often shares his tips and workouts on social media. In addition, Bisback is a passionate animal rights activist and supports various organizations that promote animal welfare.
Bisback's passion for martial arts started when he was just a child and saw Bruce Lee's "Enter the Dragon" on television. He immediately became obsessed with the martial arts and started practicing it at a young age. By the time he was 14, he was already competing in karate and kickboxing tournaments, winning multiple Belgian championships.
After his successful career in martial arts, Bisback decided to pursue acting and stunts. He began by performing in local theater productions before moving on to films and television shows. He quickly gained recognition for his work as a stunt performer and has worked on several high-profile films, including "Inferno" and "The Night Manager".
Aside from his work in the entertainment industry, Bisback is also known for his dedication to fitness and health. He is a certified personal trainer and often shares his tips and workouts on social media. He believes that true fitness is a holistic approach that involves both exercise and nutrition, and encourages his clients to adopt a healthy lifestyle.
Bisback is also an animal rights activist and supports various organizations that promote animal welfare. He believes that animals deserve to be treated with kindness and respect, and often uses his platform to raise awareness about animal cruelty.
In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, fitness, and animal rights activism, Bisback is also a black belt in karate and kickboxing. He has studied various other martial arts including Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Jeet Kune Do, and often incorporates his martial arts training into his personal training sessions. Bisback is also a regular speaker at fitness and martial arts conferences, where he shares his knowledge and experience with others. In his free time, Bisback enjoys traveling and exploring different cultures. He has visited over 40 countries and believes that travel is the best way to broaden one's horizons and gain new perspectives on life. Bisback remains an active member of the entertainment industry and continues to inspire others through his passion for fitness, martial arts, and animal rights activism.
Bisback's dedication to his craft has earned him a reputation as one of the most hardworking performers in the industry. He is known for his intense training regimen and his willingness to go above and beyond to ensure that his performances are authentic and believable. This commitment to his craft has not gone unnoticed, and Bisback has been nominated for several awards over the course of his career.
In addition to his work in front of the camera, Bisback is also an accomplished writer and has published several books on fitness and nutrition. He believes that education is key to living a healthy lifestyle and encourages his clients to take an active role in their own health.
Despite his busy schedule, Bisback remains deeply committed to his animal rights activism. He donates a portion of his earnings to various animal welfare organizations, and regularly participates in protests and other events aimed at raising awareness about animal cruelty.
Overall, Bisback is a highly talented and multifaceted individual who is beloved by fans and colleagues alike. His dedication to his work and his passion for fitness, martial arts, and animal welfare make him a true inspiration to people around the world.
Bisback's love for animals goes beyond just being an activist. He is a proud pet parent to several rescue animals, including dogs, cats, and horses. He believes that every animal deserves a loving home and is a strong advocate for adopting pets instead of buying them from breeders. Bisback often shares adorable pictures and videos of his furry friends on social media.
In addition to his physical skills and dedication to fitness, Bisback is also multilingual. He is fluent in Dutch, English, French, and German, and often uses his language skills to connect with fans and audiences around the world.
Bisback's talent and unique blend of skills have earned him recognition both at home in Belgium and internationally. He has been invited to speak at conferences and events around the world, where he inspires and motivates others to pursue their passions and live life to the fullest. Bisback's fans appreciate his genuine personality and his commitment to making the world a better place through his work and activism.