French actresses who were born in 1906
Here are 10 famous actresses from France were born in 1906:
Josephine Baker
Josephine Baker (June 3, 1906 St. Louis-April 12, 1975 Paris) also known as Freda Josephine McDonald, Black Pearl, Tumpie, Black Venus, Joséphine Baker or Créole Goddess was a French singer, actor, dancer and spy. She had twelve children, Jean-Claude Baker, Aiko Baker, Brahim Baker, Luis Baker, Janot Baker, Koffi Baker, Noël Baker, Moïse Baker, Mara Baker, Stellina Baker, Marianne Baker and Jari Baker.
Josephine Baker began her career in the United States in the 1920s, but achieved her greatest success as a performer in France, where she became an icon of the Jazz Age. She was known for her provocative dancing, often performing in little more than a banana skirt, and for her sultry voice. She also acted in several films, both in Europe and in Hollywood.
During World War II, Baker used her celebrity status to aid the French Resistance, smuggling secrets and messages in her sheet music and even hiding Jewish refugees in her home. She was awarded several honors for her bravery, including the Croix de Guerre and the Rosette de la Résistance.
In addition to her performing and her work as a spy, Baker was also known for her activism. She was a vocal advocate for civil rights and was instrumental in the desegregation of several nightclubs and theaters in the United States.
Josephine Baker continued to perform and advocate for social justice throughout her life. She passed away from a cerebral hemorrhage in 1975 and was buried with full military honors in France.
In 1968, Josephine Baker made a triumphant return to the United States, performing in New York City for the first time in over 30 years. During her performances, she refused to perform for segregated audiences and demanded that the venues where she performed be integrated. She also spoke out about racism and discrimination in the United States, and marched alongside Martin Luther King Jr. during the civil rights movement. In 1973, Baker co-wrote and starred in a successful one-woman show, "Josephine," which chronicled her life and career. Additionally, she was a philanthropist, adopting 12 children from around the world and creating a "rainbow tribe" of children of different races and nationalities. Her legacy lives on today as an icon of artistry, activism, and bravery during war and social injustice.
Despite being a global icon and celebrated performer, Josephine Baker experienced discrimination and racism in her personal life. In the United States, she faced segregation and was not allowed to enter certain hotels or restaurants due to the color of her skin. As a result, she committed to fighting for civil rights and spoke out against injustice wherever she saw it.
In addition to her activism and entertainment career, Baker was also an entrepreneur. She opened a club in Paris, Chez Josephine, and later purchased a castle in southwestern France, where she lived with her family.
Josephine Baker received numerous awards and honors throughout her lifetime, including induction into the French Legion of Honor and being named a sub-lieutenant in the Women's Auxiliary Air Force. In 2021, it was announced that she would be posthumously inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame in the United States.
Baker's impact on the world of entertainment, activism, and civil rights continues to be felt today. She is remembered as a pioneer for women of color in the arts and a trailblazer for social justice.
Jenny Hélia
Jenny Hélia (May 8, 1906 Marseille-March 24, 1992 Marseille) was a French actor.
She began her acting career in the 1930s and appeared in over 70 films throughout her career, working with notable French directors such as Marcel Carné and Jean Renoir. Hélia also acted in several theatre productions, most notably in the French adaptations of Tennessee Williams' plays. In addition to her acting career, she was also a writer, publishing her memoirs and several collections of poetry. Hélia was recognized for her contributions to the arts with numerous awards, including the Legion of Honour, the highest French order of merit for military and civil merits.
She was born Geneviève Hélia in Marseille, France, and began her acting career on stage before transitioning to film. She appeared in notable films such as "Le jour se lève" ("Daybreak") and "La Bête humaine" ("The Human Beast"). In addition to acting, Hélia was also involved in the French Resistance during World War II, using her theatrical skills to aid the cause. After the war, she continued to act in films and on stage, and also worked as a translator, translating works by authors such as Tennessee Williams into French. Hélia was known for her strong and expressive performances, and was admired by her colleagues and audiences alike. Her contributions to French culture were recognized with various awards, including the Grand Cross of the National Order of Merit in 1986.
Later in her career, Jenny Hélia appeared in several films by director Jean-Pierre Mocky, including "Litan" and "Agent trouble". She also worked with Claude Chabrol in the film "The Beast Must Die". Despite her success, Hélia remained grounded and committed to her art, often performing in small theaters in Marseille and bringing her talent to local communities. In addition to her acting and writing, Hélia was a passionate advocate for women's rights and was involved in various women's organizations throughout her life. She was also a supporter of the French Communist Party, and her political views often colored her artistic work. Jenny Hélia passed away in 1992 at the age of 85, leaving behind a rich legacy of exceptional performances and contributions to French culture. Today, she is remembered as a pioneer and trailblazer for women in the French arts world, and her contributions continue to inspire and influence generations of artists.
Maryse Martin
Maryse Martin (December 14, 1906 Paris-May 18, 1984 Paris) also known as Maria Bourintein or Max Maryse was a French actor and singer.
Born in Paris, Maryse began her career as a singer in cabarets during the 1920s. She gained popularity for her unique and mesmerizing voice that blended French chansons with African rhythms. Her success as a singer soon led her to the world of acting where she starred in several French films.
Throughout her career, Maryse was known for her eccentric style and bold personality, often pushing the boundaries and challenging societal norms. She was also an advocate for women's rights and often used her platform to speak out against gender inequality.
Despite her success, Maryse faced several challenges in her personal life, including substance abuse and mental health issues. She spent much of her later years in and out of psychiatric hospitals.
Today, Maryse is remembered as a trailblazer in French entertainment and a symbol of artistic freedom and individuality. Her legacy lives on through her music and films, which continue to inspire generations of artists.
Maryse Martin's talent as a performer was recognized from an early age. She began singing and dancing as a child, and by the age of 14 she had already performed in front of an audience at the Moulin Rouge. Maryse's career flourished in the 1930s when she became a regular performer on French radio, where she gained a devoted fanbase. She also appeared in numerous French films and stage productions during this time.
In addition to her work as an artist, Maryse was involved in several left-wing political movements. She was a member of the French Resistance during World War II, and later joined the French Communist Party. Maryse used her platform to speak out against racism and imperialism, and was a vocal supporter of the civil rights movement in the United States.
Despite facing obstacles in her personal life, Maryse remained committed to her art until the end of her life. She continued to perform and record music, and was awarded the prestigious French Legion of Honor in recognition of her contributions to French culture. Today, Maryse Martin's impact on French entertainment and social justice continues to inspire generations.
Maryse Martin's unique style of music, which blended French chansons with African rhythms, made her a trailblazer in the French music scene. Her songs drew from her experiences as a woman of mixed race, and often dealt with themes such as love, heartbreak, and racial identity. Many of her songs, such as "Les Yeux Noirs" and "Bamboula," became hits in France and beyond.
In addition to her singing and acting, Maryse was also a writer. She published several books, including a memoir entitled "Mémé la Java" and a collection of poems called "Le Poids de la Colombe."
Maryse's life was marked by personal struggles, including drug addiction and mental health issues. She was institutionalized several times throughout her life, but always managed to bounce back and continue her work as an artist.
During her later years, Maryse became involved in the feminist movement in France, and advocated for women's rights both in her art and in her activism. She also continued to perform, making several appearances on French television programs in the 1970s.
Maryse Martin died in Paris in 1984 at the age of 77. Her legacy as a pioneering performer, activist, and feminist icon continues to inspire artists and advocates around the world.
Hélène Tossy
Hélène Tossy (November 3, 1906 Marseille-July 26, 1979 Île-de-France) otherwise known as Hélène Françoise Tissot, Helene Tossi or Hélène Tossis was a French actor.
She began her career in the French film industry in the early 1930s and appeared in numerous films throughout her career, including "The Rules of the Game" and "The Grand Illusion," both of which are now considered classics of French cinema. Tossy was known for her versatility as an actress, and she played a wide range of roles throughout her career. In addition to her work onscreen, Tossy also appeared on stage in a number of productions, and she was highly regarded for her performances in both drama and comedy. Despite her success, Tossy remained relatively unknown outside of France, and her contributions to the film industry are often overlooked.
Tossy was born in Marseille and grew up in a family of artists. She initially pursued a career in ballet, but eventually turned to acting and trained at the Paris Conservatory. Tossy made her film debut in 1931 and quickly established herself as a talented and versatile actress. She worked with many of the leading directors of the time, including Jean Renoir, Marcel Carné, and Jean-Pierre Melville.
During World War II, Tossy worked with the French Resistance and used her acting skills to aid in the effort. She even went undercover as a German officer's wife to gather intelligence, an experience which she later described in her memoirs.
After the war, Tossy continued to work in film and on stage, and also became a respected acting teacher. She taught at the Paris Conservatory and the National Theater School of Canada, among others.
Tossy was known for her intelligence, wit, and independent spirit. She was a feminist and a supporter of the arts, and often spoke out about social and political issues. Despite her contributions to French culture and society, Tossy remained modest and unassuming throughout her life. She passed away in 1979 at the age of 72.
In addition to her illustrious career as an actress, Hélène Tossy was also an accomplished writer. She published her first book, a collection of short stories titled "Sans Commentaires," in 1961. She went on to publish several more books throughout her life, including memoirs, plays, and a novel. Tossy was also a polyglot and spoke several languages fluently, including English, German, and Italian. Her linguistic abilities helped her to secure roles in international productions and to communicate with filmmakers from around the world. Tossy was the recipient of numerous awards throughout her career, including the Legion of Honor in France and the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic. She remained a beloved figure in the French cultural landscape even after her passing, and her contributions to French cinema continue to be celebrated by film scholars and enthusiasts.
Lita Recio
Lita Recio (October 30, 1906 Paris-January 13, 2006 Paris) also known as Lita Reccio or Julia Recio was a French actor.
She was born in Paris to a Spanish father and Italian mother. Lita grew up with a passion for the arts and performed in various plays during her childhood. She started her acting career in the 1930s and appeared in numerous French films, including "The Rules of the Game" (1939) and "The Longest Day" (1962). She was known for her talent in portraying complex and nuanced characters on screen. In addition to her film work, Lita was also involved in theater, performing in various plays throughout her career. In 1959, she was awarded the Legion of Honour for her contribution to French cinema. Lita retired from acting in the 1970s and lived a quiet life until her passing in 2006 at the age of 99. She is remembered as one of the great actors of her time and a trailblazer for women in the film industry.
Lita Recio was also a staunch anti-fascist activist during World War II. She used her fame and influence to help Jewish families escape persecution and even sheltered them in her own home. Her bravery and heroism during the war earned her numerous awards and recognition from the French government. Lita was also a polyglot, fluent in five languages including French, Spanish, Italian, English, and German. She had a passion for travel and visited many countries throughout her life. Despite being fiercely private about her personal life, Lita had a reputation for being generous and kind-hearted towards those in need. She continued to inspire future generations of actors with her contributions to French cinema and her fearless stance against injustice.
In addition to her acting and activism, Lita Recio was also noted for her fashion sense. She was known for her chic and sophisticated style both on and off the screen, and became a fashion icon in her own right. Her sense of style was praised by many in the industry and she was often featured in fashion magazines of the time. Lita was also a talented artist and enjoyed painting in her free time. She had a great love for the arts and believed that they could bring people together and promote understanding across cultures. Lita Recio's legacy continues to live on in the world of film and beyond, as a symbol of courage, creativity and compassion.
Colette Darfeuil
Colette Darfeuil (February 7, 1906 Paris-October 15, 1998 Montfort-l'Amaury) also known as Emma Henriette Floquet was a French actor.
She began her career in silent films in the 1920s and transitioned to sound films in the 1930s. Some of her notable film roles include "La Kermesse Heroique" (1935), "Le Crime de Monsieur Lange" (1936), and "Les Disparus de St. Agil" (1938). She also acted in theater productions and on television. After her acting career, she became a painter and exhibited her work in galleries. Darfeuil was married to fellow actor Jean Galland and they had one child together.
Darfeuil was born into a family of actors, and her father was Lucien Darfeuil, a prominent stage actor. She was initially interested in becoming a dancer, but due to a knee injury, she turned to acting. Darfeuil's first film role was in the silent film "La Proie du vent" (1927), and she quickly rose to fame, appearing in over 40 films throughout her career.
In addition to her successful acting career, Darfeuil was also known for her beauty and style, often appearing on the covers of fashion magazines. She was considered a fashion icon and was known for her signature bob haircut.
During World War II, Darfeuil worked for the French Resistance, helping to smuggle Jewish children out of France. She was awarded the Legion of Honour for her bravery after the war.
In her later years, Darfeuil focused on her painting career, which had started in the 1940s. Her artwork featured abstract and figurative elements and was well-received by critics. Darfeuil passed away in 1998 at the age of 92.
Darfeuil's acting career spanned from the 1920s to the 1950s, and she worked with prominent French directors such as Jean Renoir and Marcel Carné. She also had a brief stint in Hollywood in the 1930s, appearing in the film "Bulldog Drummond Comes Back" (1937).
Aside from her work in the arts, Darfeuil was also passionate about sports and was a skilled horseback rider and skier. She was a member of the French ski team and competed in several skiing competitions in the 1930s.
In addition to her Legion of Honour, Darfeuil was awarded the Croix de Guerre and the Médaille de la Résistance for her wartime efforts. Her legacy as a talented actor and brave resistance worker has earned her a place in French cultural history.
Monette Dinay
Monette Dinay (September 20, 1906 Le Petit-Quevilly-November 19, 1986 Le Pradet) otherwise known as Simone Elise Dinet was a French actor.
She began her career as a stage performer, appearing in various productions in Paris before transitioning to film in the 1930s. Some of her notable roles were in films such as "Marius" (1931), "The Baker's Wife" (1938), and "The Gates of the Night" (1946).
Dinay continued to act throughout the 1950s and 1960s, appearing in television series and films such as "The Count of Monte Cristo" (1954) and "La Grande Vadrouille" (1966). In addition to her acting career, Dinay was also an accomplished painter and sculptor.
She was married to French film director and producer Jacques de Baroncelli from 1938 until his death in 1951. After his passing, she dedicated herself to her art and continued to exhibit her work throughout France. Dinay passed away in Le Pradet on November 19, 1986, at the age of 80.
Dinay was born in Le Petit-Quevilly, France, on September 20, 1906, under the name of Simone Elise Dinet. She began her acting career after her family moved to Paris, and she made her stage debut in 1926. Throughout her career, Dinay worked with several famous directors, including Marcel Pagnol and Jean Renoir. She was highly regarded for her performances, and her work in "Marius" was especially praised by critics.
Apart from her acting career, Dinay was also an artist and had a great passion for painting and sculpture. During World War II, she opened an art studio with fellow painter Henriette Faure in Cannes. She exhibited her work under the pseudonym Monette Dinay. Her paintings and sculptures were well-received and exhibited in galleries throughout France for many years.
After her husband's death, Dinay moved away from acting and devoted herself to art full-time. She continued to exhibit her work until her death. In 1982, the town of Saint-Zacharie, France, dedicated an exhibition to her work.
Dinay lived a private life and did not grant interviews or appear on television. She passed away on November 19, 1986, in Le Pradet, France, at the age of 80. Her contribution to French cinema and the arts are still remembered and celebrated today.
In addition to her work in films, Dinay was also a prominent figure in French theater. She appeared in numerous theatrical productions throughout her career, including works by Moliere and Jean Cocteau. Her performances were noted for their emotional depth and range. She was also a mentor to many young actors, and her guidance and encouragement helped launch the careers of several prominent performers.
As an artist, Dinay was known for her distinctive style, which blended elements of Cubism and Fauvism. Her work often featured bright colors and bold, abstract shapes. She was especially drawn to the landscapes of her native France, and many of her paintings and sculptures depicted scenes from the countryside.
Dinay was also a philanthropist, and she devoted much of her time and energy to charitable causes. She was a passionate advocate for animal rights, and she worked tirelessly to raise awareness of animal welfare issues. She was also a supporter of children's charities and organizations that provided assistance to the needy.
Despite her many accomplishments, Dinay remained humble and unassuming. She never sought fame or fortune, and she remained true to her artistic and humanitarian values throughout her life. Her legacy continues to inspire and influence new generations of artists and performers.
Louisette Rousseau
Louisette Rousseau (December 2, 1906 Segré-) is a French actor.
She began her career in the 1920s in Parisian theaters before moving to America in the 1930s. Rousseau appeared in several Hollywood films, including "Algiers" (1938) and "The Phantom of the Opera" (1943). Later in her career, she returned to France and continued acting in films and on stage until her retirement in the 1960s. Rousseau was known for her glamorous style and her roles in romantic dramas.
She was born in Segré, France, and began acting at a young age. Rousseau was a talented performer and studied under influential theater directors in Paris, which helped her to develop her craft. In 1934, she moved to America and began working in Hollywood. She quickly gained popularity for her roles in films such as "Algiers" and "The Phantom of the Opera," which cemented her status as a leading lady.
After returning to France, Rousseau continued her acting career in films and on stage. She was known for her versatility as well as her natural charm, which made her a favorite of both audiences and critics alike. In addition to her work in movies and theater, Rousseau was also an accomplished singer and songwriter.
In her personal life, Rousseau was married twice and had one child. She was known for her philanthropic work, especially in support of the arts. Despite retiring from acting in the 1960s, Louisette Rousseau remained a beloved figure in French entertainment for many years. She passed away in 1997 at the age of 91.
Rousseau's impressive career spanned over several decades, and she acted alongside some of the biggest stars of her time. In "Algiers," she starred opposite Charles Boyer, and in "The Phantom of the Opera," she shared the screen with Nelson Eddy and Susanna Foster. Her performances were praised for their emotional depth and authenticity, and Rousseau was often compared to other great actresses of the era, such as Hedy Lamarr and Marlene Dietrich.
Despite her success in Hollywood, Rousseau remained fiercely proud of her French heritage and was always eager to return home. In 1940, during the height of World War II, she left America to join the French Resistance and fight against the Nazi occupation of her homeland. Her bravery and patriotism were widely admired, and she continued to support the French Resistance even after returning to acting.
Later in her career, Rousseau became more involved in philanthropic work, particularly supporting the arts in her native France. She was a vocal advocate for cultural preservation and worked to ensure that the country's cultural heritage was protected and celebrated. Even after she retired from acting, Rousseau remained a beloved figure among her fans and peers, and her legacy continues to inspire and delight audiences around the world.
Annie Roudier
Annie Roudier (August 25, 1906 Alpes-Maritimes-March 15, 1981 Paris) also known as Anita, Anne Roudier, Annie Roudié or Anne Marie Angele Séraphine Roudier was a French actor.
Annie Roudier began her acting career in 1931 with her debut performance in the film "Mariage de princesse". She went on to act in numerous French films, including "L'Epave", "La Maison du Maltais", and "La Minute de vérité". In addition to her work in film, Roudier also acted in theater productions, notably in plays by Jean Cocteau and Marcel Aymé.
During her career, Roudier worked with many notable filmmakers and actors, including Max Ophüls, Louis Jouvet, and Edwige Feuillère. She often played supporting roles, known for her versatility and ability to bring depth to her characters.
Aside from her successful acting career, Roudier was also a painter and participated in several art exhibits throughout her life. She retired from acting in the mid-1970s and passed away in 1981 at the age of 74. Today, she is remembered as a talented and respected performer in French cinema.
Roudier was born in the small town of Saint-Germain in the Alpes-Maritimes region of France. She came from a family of artists and spent much of her childhood surrounded by art and creativity. After completing her education, Roudier pursued her passion for acting and quickly made a name for herself in the French film industry. Her performances were often praised for their emotional depth and authenticity.
Throughout her long career, Roudier appeared in over 50 films, as well as numerous television productions and stage plays. She had a particular talent for character roles, and was often called upon to portray strong-willed, independent women. In addition to her acting work, Roudier was also an accomplished painter, and exhibited her work in galleries across France.
Despite her success, Roudier remained humble and devoted to her craft, shunning the limelight in favor of the work itself. Her dedication to her art and her ability to bring complex characters to life on screen continue to inspire actors and filmmakers today.
Roudier's talent for acting was evident from a young age. She started participating in amateur theater productions while she was still in school, and her performances quickly caught the attention of local directors. After completing her studies, Roudier moved to Paris to pursue her acting career full-time. Her breakthrough came in 1931 when she appeared in "Mariage de princesse", a film that established her as a rising star in the French film industry. Over the next few years, Roudier appeared in a string of successful films, including "Le Grand Jeu" and "Les Nuits Moscovites", solidifying her status as one of the most versatile actors of her generation.
In addition to her work in films and theater, Roudier was also a passionate advocate for the arts. Throughout her life, she spoke out in support of art education and lobbied for greater recognition of the role of artists in society. Roudier believed that art had the power to bring people together and to inspire social change, and she worked tirelessly to promote this message.
Although Roudier never achieved the same level of fame as some of her contemporaries, she was widely respected within the film industry and remains an important figure in French cinema. Her legacy as a talented and devoted actor continues to inspire generations of artists and performers around the world.
Simone Vaudry
Simone Vaudry (February 25, 1906 9th arrondissement of Paris-January 3, 1993 Puteaux) also known as Simone Hélène Georgette Vaurigaud was a French actor.
She began her career in the 1920s and soon became a familiar face on French stage and screen. Vaudry appeared in over 40 films in a career spanning four decades. She was known for her versatility and ability to play both comedic and dramatic roles with equal skill. Some of her notable films include "La Poison" (1951), "Les Enfants Terribles" (1950), and "Le Jour se Leve" (1939).
In addition to her film work, Vaudry was also a celebrated stage actress. She performed in numerous plays, including works by Molière, Shakespeare, and Ibsen. She was a member of the prestigious Comédie-Française for many years and was renowned for her performances in classical French theater.
Throughout her long and storied career, Vaudry received many accolades for her work. She was awarded the Legion of Honor in 1983 in recognition of her contributions to French culture. She continued to work in theater and film well into her 80s, and is remembered as one of the great French actresses of the 20th century.
Vaudry's talent and passion for acting began to manifest at a young age, and she attended the prestigious Conservatoire de Paris to hone her craft. She made her stage debut in 1926 and quickly rose to prominence in the French theater scene. Vaudry was praised for her ability to bring depth and nuance to her characters, and her performances were noted for their emotional intensity.
Throughout her career, Vaudry worked with some of the most renowned directors and actors of her time. She was a muse of the legendary filmmaker Marcel Carné and appeared in several of his most iconic films. Vaudry also worked with directors such as Henri-Georges Clouzot, Jean-Pierre Melville, and Max Ophüls, cementing her status as one of the leading actresses of the French New Wave.
Vaudry was known for her strong personality and uncompromising dedication to her art. She was a feminist and was vocal about the need for more complex and nuanced roles for women in film and theater. Vaudry was also active in various political causes throughout her life, including the French Resistance during World War II.
Despite her achievements and the acclaim she received, Vaudry remained humble and dedicated to her craft. She once said, "Acting is not a profession, it is a passion." Her legacy and impact on French cinema and theater can still be felt today, more than two decades after her death.
In addition to her work in film and theater, Vaudry was also a published author. She wrote several books, including a memoir and a novel. Her memoir, "Carnets d'une actrice," was published in 1986 and offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of theater and film in France during the mid-20th century.
Vaudry was married twice, first to the actor Aimé Clariond and later to the film director Pierre Billon. She did not have children but was close to her nieces and nephews.
In her later years, Vaudry suffered from health problems and retired from acting in the 1980s. She devoted her time to writing and continued to support the arts through various charitable endeavors. She passed away in 1993 at the age of 86, leaving behind a rich legacy of exceptional performances and a dedication to the craft of acting that continues to inspire generations of actors and actresses.