French actors who were born in 1915
Here are 13 famous actors from France were born in 1915:
Jean Chevrier
Jean Chevrier (April 25, 1915 Paris-December 13, 1975 Paris) also known as Jean Chevrier Sociétaire de la Comédie Française, Jean Dufayard, Chevrier or Jean Chevrier de la Comédie Française was a French actor.
He began his acting career in the 1930s, appearing in a number of films including "Les Musiciens du ciel" (1938) and "Gargousse" (1938). Chevrier gained national recognition for his performance in the 1940 film "Le Diamant noir" and went on to appear in over 60 films throughout his career. In addition to his film work, Chevrier was a regular performer at the Comédie Française, one of France's premier theater companies, from 1947 until his death in 1975. He was known for his capability to portray a range of characters, from villains to leading men, and was regarded by some as one of France's greatest actors of the 20th century. Chevrier was awarded the Legion of Honor in 1960 for his contributions to French cinema and theater.
Chevrier was born in Paris in 1915 and, like many French actors of his time, he began his career in regional theater before being discovered by film studios. He quickly made a name for himself in French cinema, starring in acclaimed films such as "Carnival in Flanders" (1935) and "The Beautiful Adventure" (1936). Chevrier also worked with legendary directors such as Marcel Carné on "Hotel du Nord" (1938).
During World War II, Chevrier joined the French Resistance and fought against Nazi occupation. He continued to act in films during this time, including the wartime drama "La Bataille du Rail" (1946).
In addition to his work on stage and screen, Chevrier was also a voice actor and dubbed the French voices for Hollywood stars such as Gary Cooper and Cary Grant.
Chevrier's final film role was in the 1974 comedy "Impossible... pas français" and he continued to perform on stage until his death in 1975. He is remembered not only for his talent as an actor but also for his commitment to French culture and his contributions to the French Resistance during World War II.
Hubert Gignoux
Hubert Gignoux (February 13, 1915 Lyon-February 26, 2008 Paris) was a French actor and theatre director.
He began his career in theatre, working as an assistant to Jean Vilar and appearing in productions at the Theatre National Populaire. Gignoux also worked as a voice actor, lending his voice to French dubs of foreign films.
In addition to his work in theatre and film, Gignoux was a member of the French Resistance during World War II, working as a courier and participating in sabotage operations. After the war, he continued to be involved in political activism and was a member of the French Communist Party.
Gignoux acted in films throughout his career, appearing in works by directors such as Claude Chabrol and Louis Malle. He also directed several productions for the stage, including plays by Shakespeare and Jean Anouilh.
In 1991, Gignoux was awarded the Legion of Honor for his contributions to French culture. He continued to work in theatre and film until his death in 2008 at the age of 93.
Gignoux was born into a family of doctors and lawyers in Lyon in 1915, but he chose to pursue a career in the arts instead of following in his family's footsteps. His talent for acting was noticed early on, and he began performing in local theatres while still a teenager. During the 1930s, he moved to Paris to study at the prestigious National Conservatory of Dramatic Art.
With the outbreak of World War II, Gignoux joined the French Resistance, where he used his acting skills to help hide Jewish refugees and smuggle messages. His work for the Resistance led to his arrest by the Gestapo and imprisonment for several months, but he managed to escape and continued to fight against the Nazis until the end of the war.
After the war, Gignoux became involved in left-wing politics and the French Communist Party, and his activism led to several run-ins with authorities. Nevertheless, he continued to act in films and stage productions and was widely recognized as one of France's greatest actors and directors.
Gignoux's performances were characterized by his intense emotional depth and physical expressiveness. He had a particular talent for conveying complex psychological states with subtle gestures and facial expressions. Many of his performances were lauded as masterpieces of French theatre and cinema, and his influence on subsequent generations of actors cannot be overstated.
Despite his many accomplishments, Gignoux remained humble and dedicated to his craft. In an interview near the end of his life, he said, "Acting is not a job or a profession; it's a way of life. It requires discipline, dedication, and passion. I have been fortunate to be able to spend my life doing what I love, and I am grateful for every moment."
Maurice Marsac
Maurice Marsac (March 23, 1915 Croix-May 6, 2007 Santa Rosa) was a French actor.
Marsac's career spanned several decades and he appeared in over 80 films and television shows. He initially pursued a career in finance, but a chance encounter with director Jean Cocteau drew him to the world of acting. Marsac gained international recognition for his role as the villainous butler in the 1963 film "Charade" opposite Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant. He went on to appear in other notable films such as "Sabrina" (1954), "Gigi" (1958), and "How to Steal a Million" (1966). In addition to his film work, Marsac was a regular presence on television, appearing in shows such as "The Twilight Zone", "Bewitched", and "Hogan's Heroes". He was known for his suave, sophisticated demeanor and often played characters with a European accent. Marsac continued to act well into his 80s, appearing in his last film "The Lost Skeleton Returns Again" in 2009, two years after his death.
Maurice Marsac was born on March 23, 1915, in Croix, a small town in northern France. After completing his studies in finance, he joined a Parisian theater group where he developed an interest in acting. He later enrolled at the Drama Centre London to hone his skills. During World War II, Marsac joined the French Resistance and worked as a spy, using his fluency in several languages to gather and transmit intelligence.
After the war, he began making appearances in French films and television before moving to the United States in 1951 to pursue an acting career there. He quickly made a name for himself, landing roles in several Hollywood productions. In the 1960s, Marsac became a naturalized citizen of the United States.
Maurice Marsac was married to his wife, Adrienne, for more than 60 years until her death in 2006. The couple had three children together. In addition to his acting career, Marsac was a skilled painter and was known for his watercolor landscapes. In his later years, he lived in Santa Rosa, California, where he enjoyed gardening and spending time with his family. Marsac passed away on May 6, 2007, at the age of 92.
François Darbon
François Darbon (August 15, 1915 Paris-July 9, 1998 Paris) also known as Jean-François Darbon or Jean-Francois Darbon was a French actor.
Darbon began his acting career in the 1940s, and appeared in over 50 films throughout his career. He was known for his versatile acting style, and played a range of characters from sympathetic heroes to ruthless villains. Some of his notable film credits include "La Grande Illusion" (1937), "Le Corbeau" (1943), and "La Ronde" (1950). In addition to his film work, Darbon also appeared in several stage productions in France. He was honored with the Order of Arts and Letters in France for his contributions to theater and cinema.
Darbon was born into a family of artists; his father was a painter and his mother was a sculptor. He originally intended to become a painter himself, but after taking some acting classes he was drawn to the stage. He began his theatrical career with the Comédie-Française, one of France's most prestigious theater companies, and continued to perform with them throughout his life. Despite his success on stage, Darbon is best known for his work in film. He started his career in the 1940s, during the golden age of French cinema, and quickly became one of the most sought-after actors of his time. His success in films like "Le Plaisir" (1952) and "Les Diaboliques" (1955) made him a household name in France. Darbon was known for his professionalism and his dedication to his craft. He continued to act until the end of his life, appearing in his final film, "Le Jour et la Nuit" (1997), at the age of 81. He died the following year, at the age of 82, in Paris.
Bernard Charlan
Bernard Charlan (November 6, 1915 Paris-January 20, 2001 Montmorency) also known as Bernard Charland or Marcel Saulay was a French actor.
He began his acting career in 1937 and appeared in over 40 films throughout his career. Charlan was best known for his roles in French films such as "La Ronde" and "Les Enfants Terribles". He also worked extensively in the theater, including productions at the Comédie-Française. Charlan was a prolific actor and continued to work in film and theater until his death in 2001. In addition to his acting career, Charlan was also a talented painter and exhibited his work in galleries throughout France.
Charlan began his career in the entertainment industry as a radio announcer and voice actor. He lent his voice to dubbing foreign films into French and dubbed the voices of famous actors such as Edward G. Robinson and James Cagney. Charlan was a versatile actor and appeared in a range of genres including drama, comedy, and thrillers. He worked with some of the most prominent directors of his time including Jean Cocteau, François Truffaut, and Luis Buñuel. Charlan was highly respected in French cinema and received numerous awards throughout his career, including the Legion of Honour in 1992. He was married three times and had two daughters. Charlan's legacy continues to live on as one of the most accomplished actors of his generation.
Maurice Teynac
Maurice Teynac (August 8, 1915 Paris-March 28, 1992 Paris) otherwise known as Maurice-Emmanuel-Marie Garros was a French actor.
Starting his career in the 1930s, Teynac appeared in over 80 films throughout his career. He was a prominent figure in French cinema during the 1940s and 50s, playing lead roles in popular films such as "Devil in the Flesh" (1947) and "Black and White" (1950). Teynac was also a skilled stage actor, appearing in numerous theatrical productions throughout Paris. Despite his success, Teynac retired from acting in the early 1960s and dedicated himself to writing and painting. He died in Paris in 1992 at the age of 76.
In addition to his acting career, Maurice Teynac was known for his political activism. He was a member of the French Resistance during World War II and later became involved in leftist political movements. Teynac was also an outspoken critic of the Algerian War, publicly condemning the French government's actions in Algeria. His political views often caused controversy and resulted in him being blacklisted from certain film projects.
Teynac's retirement from acting allowed him to focus on his other passions. He wrote several novels, including "Lucrèce en Amérique" and "La Boîte à images," which were well-received by critics. Teynac also dedicated himself to painting and had several successful exhibitions of his work throughout France.
Despite his many accomplishments, Teynac remained a private person throughout his life. He rarely gave interviews and preferred to keep his personal life out of the public eye. His contributions to French cinema and literature, however, continue to be celebrated to this day.
Jean-Marie Serreau
Jean-Marie Serreau (April 28, 1915 Poitiers-May 22, 1973 Paris) was a French theatre director and actor. His children are called Coline Serreau and Nicolas Serreau.
Serreau was a key figure in the French avant-garde theatre movement of the 1950s and 60s. He founded the Théâtre National Populaire and served as its director from 1959 to 1962, where he directed several productions that helped pioneer the concept of "popular theater". In addition to his work as a theatre director, Serreau was also a film actor, appearing in films such as "La Guerre des boutons" and "Belle de Jour". He was known for his avant-garde and unconventional approach to theatre and was a strong advocate for political theatre that addressed the issues of the day. Serreau remains a celebrated figure in French theatre and his legacy continues to influence contemporary theatre directors around the world.
Jean-Marie Serreau was born into a family of artists. His father was a painter and his mother was a pianist, which exposed Serreau to the arts at a young age. After studying literature and philosophy, he began his career as a theatre critic before eventually transitioning into directing. Serreau's directorial style was highly experimental and incorporated elements of dance, music, and visual arts. His productions often took place in unconventional spaces such as abandoned buildings or public squares, which challenged traditional ideas of what theatre should be.
Serreau's contributions to the theatre world were not limited to his work as a director. He was also an influential playwright, and his plays addressed social and political issues such as war, fascism, and colonialism. In addition to his work in theatre and film, Serreau was also a prominent activist and vocal supporter of left-wing politics. He was a member of the French Resistance during World War II and was involved in several socialist organizations throughout his life.
Despite his untimely death at the age of 58, Jean-Marie Serreau's legacy lives on. His innovative approach to theatre and commitment to social justice continue to inspire generations of artists and audiences alike.
Jacques Terrane
Jacques Terrane (August 23, 1915 Paris-June 20, 1941 Damascus) also known as Jacques Tartière was a French actor.
He began his career in France in the late 1930s, appearing in a number of films such as "Le Récif de corail" and "Barnabé". Terrane gained international attention for his role in the film "The Grand Illusion" (1937) directed by Jean Renoir. He continued acting in both French and American films, including "La Chef" (1939) and "The Rains Came" (1939).
Terrane's promising career was cut short when he was killed in action during World War II while serving as a captain in the French Army in Syria. He was posthumously awarded the Croix de guerre for his bravery in the line of duty. Despite his short career, Jacques Terrane is remembered as a talented actor and a symbol of courage and sacrifice.
In addition to his acting career, Jacques Terrane was also a skilled pilot and a member of the French Air Force Reserve. He was called to service at the outbreak of World War II and flew numerous sorties over Germany before being transferred to ground duty in Syria. Terrane was also known for his love of motorcycles and car racing, and he often competed in endurance races before the war. In 1938, he participated in the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans race, finishing in 10th place with his teammate René Le Bègue. Despite his short life, Jacques Terrane left a lasting impact on the world of cinema and the hearts of his fans, and his legacy continues to be celebrated today.
Alfred Baillou
Alfred Baillou (March 1, 1915 Saint-Georges-de-Didonne-February 17, 1982 Ris-Orangis) was a French actor.
Baillou began his acting career in the 1930s, appearing in several French films such as "La kermesse héroïque" and "La Bête Humaine". However, he is perhaps best known for his role as the Marquis de la Chesnaye in Jean Renoir's classic film "The Rules of the Game" (1939). After serving in World War II, Baillou continued to act in films and on stage, becoming a prominent figure in the French theater world. He was awarded the Legion of Honour for his contributions to French culture in 1975. Baillou passed away in 1982 at the age of 66.
Baillou was born in Saint-Georges-de-Didonne, a small town in southwestern France. He began his acting career in Paris in the early 1930s, performing in various stage productions. He made his film debut in 1932 in the film "Le Chien jaune". Throughout the 1930s, Baillou appeared in many films, including "Le Gendre de monsieur Poirier" (1933) and "Le Roi des Champs-Élysées" (1934).
Baillou's most notable film role came in 1939 when he was cast as the Marquis de la Chesnaye in Jean Renoir's classic satirical film "The Rules of the Game". The film, which remains a timeless masterpiece of French cinema, is a biting critique of French society and aristocracy in the years leading up to World War II. Baillou's performance as the haughty, snobbish Marquis perfectly captured the arrogance and self-importance of the French ruling class.
During World War II, Baillou served as a member of the French Resistance. After the war, he resumed his acting career, appearing in numerous films and stage productions. He was also a regular presence on French television in the 1960s and 70s, appearing in dramas and comedies alike.
Baillou was a highly respected figure in French theater circles, and in 1975 he was awarded the Legion of Honour, one of the highest honors bestowed by the French government, for his contributions to French culture. He passed away in 1982 at the age of 66, leaving behind a legacy as one of France's most distinguished actors of the 20th century.
Jean Dalmain
Jean Dalmain (June 25, 1915 Paris-March 28, 2010 Montreal) also known as Jean Gironnay was a French actor.
He was well-known for his work on stage, film, and television, and appeared in over 70 productions throughout his career. Dalmain began his acting career in the 1930s, working mainly in French cinema. He appeared in notable films such as "Les Amants de Montparnasse" (1958) and "The Sleeping Car Murders" (1965).
Dalmain also had a successful career on stage, and was a member of the prestigious Comédie-Française. He performed in numerous plays, including Molière's "Tartuffe" and Racine's "Phèdre". In addition to his work in French theatre, Dalmain also acted in English-language productions, such as Samuel Beckett's "Waiting for Godot".
In 1972, Dalmain emigrated to Canada and continued to work in film and television, appearing in popular Canadian shows such as "The Littlest Hobo" and "The Beachcombers". Despite living most of his life in Canada, he remained proud of his French heritage and continued to maintain connections with the French entertainment industry.
Throughout his career, Dalmain was recognized for his talent and contributions to the arts. He was awarded the Order of Canada in 2005 for his lifetime of achievement in acting. Dalmain passed away in 2010, leaving behind a legacy as a respected actor on both sides of the Atlantic.
In addition to his acting career, Jean Dalmain was also a gifted voice actor, lending his voice to numerous French-dubbed films and television shows. He was also a writer, penning several books on his experiences in the entertainment industry, including his memoirs "Un Parisien à Montréal" (A Parisian in Montreal). Despite his prolific career, Dalmain remained a private person, rarely giving interviews or discussing his personal life. He was known for his dedication to his craft and his commitment to his roles, immersing himself in his characters and bringing them to life on stage and screen. Dalmain's contributions to French and Canadian theatre and film continue to be celebrated and remembered today.
Fernand Bonnevie
Fernand Bonnevie (January 18, 1915 Val-d'Isère-May 26, 2013 Val-d'Isère) was a French actor.
He was born in the town of Val-d'Isère in the French Alps and grew up in a family of ski instructors. Bonnevie started his acting career in the 1940s, performing in various films and stage productions. He became well-known for his roles in French cinema and participated in many important films during the years of the French New Wave. Some of his most notable roles include appearances in Jean-Pierre Melville's "Bob le Flambeur," François Truffaut's "The 400 Blows," and Agnès Varda's "Le Bonheur." Apart from his acting work, Bonnevie was also a ski instructor and was heavily involved in the development of skiing in his hometown. He was honored with various awards for his contribution to the sport, including the prestigious "Légion d'honneur" for his work as a ski instructor. Fernand Bonnevie passed away in Val-d'Isère in 2013 at the age of 98.
Bonnevie's love for skiing led him to participate in various competitions as a young man, and he even won the French downhill skiing championship in 1938. However, his acting career took off shortly after, and he became a sought-after performer in French cinema. In addition to his work in films, he also appeared on stage in Paris and other parts of France. Bonnevie's talent and his ability to effortlessly transition from comedic to dramatic roles made him a popular actor, and he worked with some of the biggest names in French cinema during his career.
In his later years, Bonnevie continued to act and ski, and was known for his dedication to the community of Val-d'Isère. He was often seen around town, greeting locals and visitors alike with a smile and a friendly word. In recognition of his contributions to the town and its people, the municipality of Val-d'Isère named a street after him.
Bonnevie's legacy lives on today through his work in cinema and his dedication to skiing and his community. He was an accomplished actor and athlete, who remained active and engaged until the end of his long and rich life.
Robert Le Béal
Robert Le Béal (March 2, 1915 Paris-May 8, 1996 Paris) also known as Robert Albert Le Béalle, Le Beal, Le Béal or Robert Le Beal was a French actor.
Robert Le Béal began his acting career in theatre, performing in various plays and productions in Paris. He later transitioned to film and television, where he became known for his dramatic roles in French cinema. He appeared in over 50 films throughout his career, working with many acclaimed directors, and won the Best Actor award at the 1966 Venice Film Festival for his role in the film "Un homme de trop". Aside from acting, Le Béal was also a painter and illustrator, and his artworks were exhibited in galleries in Paris. Despite his success in both acting and art, he remained a relatively private person, rarely giving interviews or discussing his personal life in public.
Le Béal was born in Paris, France to a family of artists. His father was a painter and his mother was an opera singer. Le Béal showed an interest in acting and art at a young age, and began studying both fields in his spare time. He enrolled in the National Conservatory of Dramatic Art in Paris at the age of 18, where he trained under the guidance of some of the most prominent theatre directors of the time.
Le Béal's stage career proved to be successful, and he soon began to make a name for himself in the French theatre scene. He appeared in many productions throughout the 1940s and 1950s, and was particularly acclaimed for his performances in plays by Jean Cocteau and Eugène Ionesco.
In the 1960s, Le Béal transitioned to film and television, where he quickly established himself as one of France's most talented actors. He appeared in films by renowned directors such as Jean-Luc Godard, Claude Chabrol, and Alain Resnais, and was often praised for his ability to bring depth and complexity to his roles.
Le Béal continued to work in theatre and film throughout the 1970s and 1980s, and also began to dedicate more time to his art. His paintings and illustrations were well-received by critics and collectors alike, and he exhibited his work in galleries both in France and abroad.
Le Béal passed away in Paris on May 8, 1996, leaving behind a legacy as one of France's most talented and versatile artists.
Albert Dagnant
Albert Dagnant (October 9, 1915 El Harrach-February 25, 1980 Paris) also known as Albert Dagnan was a French actor. He had one child, Josée Dayan.
Albert Dagnant began his career in the theater, where he worked for several years. He appeared in productions of plays by famous playwrights such as Shakespeare, Molière, and Jean Anouilh. In 1948, he made his film debut in the French drama "Le Secret de Mayerling". Over the next three decades, he appeared in over 50 films, often playing supporting roles.
Although he was a prolific film actor, Dagnant continued to work in the theater throughout his career. He also appeared on television, including in the popular French crime drama "Les Cinq Dernières Minutes". Dagnant was known for his versatility as an actor, able to convincingly portray characters of different ages and backgrounds.
Dagnant passed away in 1980 at the age of 64 in Paris, France. He is remembered as a talented actor who made significant contributions to French theater, film, and television.
In addition to his work in the arts, Albert Dagnant was also a member of the French Resistance during World War II. He was involved in the Liberation of Paris in 1944, and was later awarded the Croix de Guerre for his bravery. In his personal life, Dagnant was known for his love of literature and was a friend of French author and philosopher Albert Camus. He also had a passion for the sport of boxing and was trained in the ring by famous French boxer Georges Carpentier. Despite his successful career and achievements, Dagnant remained humble and committed to his craft until his passing.