French actresses who were born in 1907
Here are 6 famous actresses from France were born in 1907:
Annabella
Annabella (July 14, 1907 Val-de-Marne-September 18, 1996 Neuilly-sur-Seine) otherwise known as Suzanne Georgette Charpentier or Annabella Power was a French actor. She had one child, Anne Power.
Annabella began her career in French cinema, starring in the film "Le Million" in 1931. She went on to appear in numerous French films throughout the 1930s before moving to Hollywood in 1939. There, she starred in several films including "Suez" (1938) and "Hotel Berlin" (1945). She became known for her beauty and talent, receiving accolades for her performances both in France and America.
In addition to her film career, Annabella worked in the theatre, appearing in plays in Paris, London, and on Broadway. She also made television appearances in the 1950s and 60s.
Annabella was known for her tumultuous love life, having been married four times. Her first husband was the French actor Jean Murat, whom she divorced in 1938. In 1940, she married the actor Tyrone Power with whom she had a daughter, Anne Power. The couple divorced in 1956. She went on to marry two more times, but both marriages ended in divorce.
In her later years, Annabella lived a quiet life in France, where she passed away in 1996 at the age of 89. She remains a celebrated figure in French cinema history.
Despite her success in Hollywood, Annabella struggled with the language barrier and eventually returned to France to focus on French-language films. She continued to act well into the 1960s, appearing in films such as "La Bonne Soupe" and "Le Tonnerre de Dieu." In addition to her acting career, Annabella was known for her humanitarian work with UNICEF, for which she was awarded the Legion of Honor in 1950. Despite her personal struggles with marriage, she maintained close relationships with her close friends, including the writer Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, who dedicated his book "The Little Prince" to her and her daughter Anne. Annabella's legacy has been remembered in popular culture, with the French rock band Les Rita Mitsouko even releasing a song about her in their album "Systeme D," titled "Annabella."
In addition to her acting and humanitarian work, Annabella was also a talented painter, with artistic abilities running in her family. Her father was a sculptor while her mother was a painter. Annabella's own artistic work mainly featured landscapes and still life paintings. She showcased her artwork in several exhibitions throughout her life, with her first solo exhibition taking place in Paris in 1956. Annabella also had a love for horses and was an accomplished equestrian. She owned a horse named "Pouliche" which she rode in several competitions. Her passion for horses also led her to become a breeder, and she owned a stud farm in France. Annabella's contributions to the arts, film, and humanitarianism have made her an icon in the entertainment industry and a notable figure in history.
Annabella's early years were marked by tragedy, as her father died when she was just six years old. Her mother struggled to make ends meet, working as a seamstress to support her family. Despite this, Annabella's mother saw the potential in her daughter and enrolled her in a drama school. It was there that Annabella discovered her passion for acting and began to take on small roles in French films. Her breakthrough came in 1931 when she was cast in the lead role in "Le Million," which became one of the most popular French films of the year.
During World War II, Annabella's career took a hit as the film industry struggled in both France and America. She turned her attention to working with the resistance, helping Allied soldiers and Jewish refugees escape from occupied France. This work put her in danger and she was eventually forced to flee to Switzerland. After the war, she returned to France and continued acting in both French and American films.
In addition to her work with UNICEF, Annabella was also involved in several other charities, including the French Red Cross and the International Association of the Friends of Saint-Exupéry. She was known for her kindness and compassion, often using her fame to raise awareness and funds for various causes.
Annabella's contributions to the arts, film, and humanitarianism have made her a beloved figure in France and around the world. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of actors and artists, and her impact on cinema history is still felt today.
Furthermore, in addition to her contributions to the film industry, Annabella was known for her impeccable fashion sense. Her beauty and elegance made her a fashion icon in the 1930s and 40s, with many women emulating her style. She was known for her love of designer fashion, particularly the work of the French fashion house Balenciaga. She was often photographed wearing their creations and became a muse to the designer himself. Annabella's fashion sense and style have been celebrated in several exhibitions, including the 2011 exhibition "Paris Haute Couture" at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. Overall, Annabella's impact on the arts, fashion, and humanitarianism has solidified her place as a beloved and influential figure in history.
Yola d'Avril
Yola d'Avril (April 8, 1907 Lille-March 2, 1984 Port Hueneme) also known as Yola d'Arvil Montiague or Yola D'Avril was a French actor.
Yola d'Avril began her acting career in the 1920s and appeared in numerous French films throughout the 1930s and 1940s. She was known for her captivating screen presence and her ability to play both dramatic and comedic roles with ease. D'Avril also performed on stage, often in cabarets and music halls in Paris. During World War II, she and her husband, French actor Jacques Montagne, were active in the French Resistance. In the 1950s, d'Avril moved to the United States where she continued to act in films and on television, with roles in movies such as "The Eddy Duchin Story" and TV shows like "Bonanza" and "The Twilight Zone". She retired from acting in the 1960s and spent her remaining years in California, where she passed away at the age of 76.
D'Avril was born in Lille, France and began her acting career on the stage in the Montmartre district of Paris. She quickly transitioned to film and became a sought-after leading lady, starring in movies like "Tarass Boulba" and "La Poison". In addition to her acting career, d'Avril was also a talented singer and dancer, which led to her frequent appearances in music hall performances.
During her time in the United States, d'Avril became known for her work in television, particularly her appearances on popular shows of the time like "The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet" and "Perry Mason". She was also praised for her performances on stage, particularly in productions of French plays.
Throughout her life, d'Avril remained a passionate advocate for the arts, and she often used her celebrity status to support various artistic causes. Today, she is remembered as one of France's most beloved actresses of the mid-20th century.
D'Avril's involvement in the French Resistance during World War II was a major part of her life and career. She and her husband, Jacques Montagne, used their status as actors to gather intelligence and coordinate resistance efforts. D'Avril also used her fame to help smuggle people and materials across borders. Her bravery and dedication to the resistance effort earned her several honors, including the Croix de Guerre and the Médaille de la Résistance.
Despite her success in Hollywood, d'Avril never forgot her roots in France. She remained an active member of the French expatriate community in Los Angeles and frequently attended cultural events that celebrated French art and literature. D'Avril also continued to work with French filmmakers, and her final acting credit was a small role in the French film "Le Chat et la Souris" in 1975.
In addition to her artistic achievements, d'Avril was also known for her personal style and charm. She was often seen wearing glamorous outfits and accessories, and her elegant demeanor made her a popular figure among the fashion and beauty industry. Even in her later years, d'Avril maintained her impeccable style and grace.
Overall, Yola d'Avril was a talented and multifaceted performer who left a lasting impression on both French and American audiences. Her contributions to the arts and her courageous efforts during World War II have ensured her place in history as a beloved and respected figure.
D'Avril's talents extended beyond her onscreen and stage performances, as she was also fluent in multiple languages, including French, English, Spanish, and Italian. This skill allowed her to work in international productions and connect with a wider audience.
In addition, d'Avril was a philanthropist who dedicated her time and resources to various charitable causes. She supported organizations that helped children and those affected by poverty and worked to promote awareness of social issues.
D'Avril's legacy continues to inspire and entertain audiences throughout the world. Her performances and activism helped pave the way for future generations of actors and artists, and her impact on the cultural landscape of both France and the United States cannot be understated.
Throughout her career, Yola d'Avril was known for her versatility as an actress, able to seamlessly transition from dramatic roles to comedic ones. She was praised for her ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety and nuance, and her performances often captivated audiences with their depth and authenticity. D'Avril's talent and charisma enabled her to work with some of the most renowned filmmakers and actors of her time, including Jean Renoir, Jean Gabin, and Maurice Chevalier.
In addition to her acting and philanthropic work, d'Avril was also a talented writer. She authored several books, including a memoir about her experiences in Hollywood and an autobiography detailing her involvement in the French Resistance. Her writing was praised for its vivid imagery, sharp wit, and candid honesty.
Today, d'Avril is remembered as a pioneering figure in the entertainment industry, who broke down barriers and helped pave the way for future generations of actors and artists. Her legacy serves as an inspiration to all those who strive to make a difference in the world through their creative endeavors and humanitarian efforts.
Edwige Feuillère
Edwige Feuillère (October 29, 1907 Vesoul-November 13, 1998 Boulogne-Billancourt) also known as Edwige Feuillere, Edwige Louise Caroline Cunati, Cora Lynn, Cora Lyne, Edwige Louise Caroline Cunatti, Edwige 1ère or Edwige the 1st was a French actor.
Feuillère began her acting career in the late 1920s and quickly rose to fame in the French film industry. She appeared in a number of notable films throughout her career, including "Les Enfants Terribles" (1950) and "Juliette, or Key of Dreams" (1951).
Feuillère was also renowned for her work on stage, where she performed in several prestigious theaters throughout France. She was particularly known for her roles in classical French plays and was considered one of the leading actresses of her time.
In addition to her acting career, Feuillère was also a noted fashion icon and style icon. She worked closely with famed designer Coco Chanel, whom she considered a close friend.
Feuillère continued to act well into her later years, appearing in films and on stage until the 1980s. She passed away in 1998 at the age of 91.
Feuillère was born into a family of Italian and Swiss heritage in Vesoul, France. She began her acting career in the 1920s on stage, and made her film debut in 1931. Feuillère quickly became known for her acting skills and was considered one of the most prominent French actresses of her time.
During World War II, Feuillère toured Europe with French and British soldiers, performing for French troops in North Africa and the Middle East. She was also briefly imprisoned by the Germans in 1944 for her activities in the French Resistance.
Even in her later years, Feuillère remained a popular and talented actress, winning critical acclaim for her performances in both stage productions and films. In 1983, she was awarded the Legion of Honor, one of France's highest civilian honors, for her contributions to French culture.
Feuillère was admired for her elegance and sophistication both on and off-screen. She was often photographed by renowned photographers and designers, and her style was considered an inspiration to many.
Feuillère was married twice in her lifetime. Her first marriage was to Pierre Feuillère, a banker whom she divorced in 1937. She then married Mark Sandrich, an American film director, who directed her in the film "The Flame of New Orleans" (1941). Sandrich passed away in 1945, and Feuillère never remarried. Feuillère was also known for her philanthropic work and supported several charities throughout her life. She was a patron of the French Red Cross and also helped raise funds for cancer research. Despite her fame and success, Feuillère was known for her humility and down-to-earth personality. She remained close to her friends and family throughout her life and was remembered by many as a gracious and generous person.
Feuillère's talent and legacy extended beyond just acting and fashion. She was also an accomplished writer, having published a number of novels and memoirs throughout her career. Her autobiography, "Le Jeu des Yeux" (The Game of Eyes), was published in 1972 and received critical acclaim for its honesty and insight into her life and career.
In addition to her work in the arts, Feuillère was also an avid traveler and explorer. She journeyed extensively throughout Europe, Asia, and Africa, and her travels often influenced her work and creative output.
Feuillère never had any children but was known for her close relationships with her nieces and nephews, whom she often referred to as her "adopted children."
Today, Feuillère is remembered as one of France's most beloved and talented actresses, and her contributions to French culture continue to inspire new generations of artists and performers.
During her long career, Edwige Feuillère worked with some of the most renowned artists of her time. She collaborated with famous directors such as Max Ophüls, Jean Cocteau, and Marcel Carné. She also acted alongside some of the most prominent actors of the era, including Jean Marais, Jean Gabin, and Michel Simon. Feuillère was known for her versatility as an actress, seamlessly transitioning between dramatic and comedic roles.
Feuillère's impact on French culture and the arts continued long after her passing. In 2007, the French postal service issued a commemorative stamp in her honor, and she has been the subject of several books and documentaries. Her former home in Paris, the Villa Montmorency, was declared a historic monument in 1999.
Many of Feuillère's personal belongings, including her wardrobe, jewelry, and photographs, were auctioned off after her death, attracting significant interest from collectors and fans of her work. Her legacy also lives on through the Edwige Feuillère Prize, an annual award given to promising young actresses in France.
As a trailblazer for women in the arts, Feuillère's influence can still be seen today in the many actresses and performers who have followed in her footsteps. Her contributions to film, theater, fashion, and literature continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.
Jacqueline Delubac
Jacqueline Delubac (May 27, 1907 Lyon-October 14, 1997 Créteil) also known as Isabelle Jacqueline Basset was a French actor.
She rose to prominence in the French film industry during the 1930s and starred in several notable films such as "Les Filles de la concierge" and "The Pearls of the Crown". Delubac also had a successful career on stage and worked with renowned playwrights including Jean Cocteau and Marcel Achard. During World War II, she became involved in the French Resistance and worked as a courier for the group. Delubac continued acting well into her 80s, with her last film role in "Fanfan" in 1993. In recognition of her contributions to French cinema, she was awarded the Legion of Honour in 1985.
After the war, Jacqueline Delubac founded her own production company named "Films du Prieuré". She acted in and produced several movies, including "Les Amants de Montparnasse", a biopic about the life of sculptor Henri Gaudier-Brzeska. Delubac was also known for her fashion sense and was a muse for fashion designer Christian Dior. She often wore Dior's designs both on and off the screen. Delubac was married twice, first to French film director Henri Decoin and then to French businessman François Meyer. She passed away at the age of 90 in Créteil, France.
In addition to her successful career in acting and producing, Jacqueline Delubac was also a talented writer. She published her first book, "Amours, Amours" in 1946, which was a collection of short stories. She later wrote a memoir titled "L'age de mes rêves" in 1988, which recounted her experiences as an actor and filmmaker in France during the 1930s and 1940s. Delubac was also a passionate collector of art and antiques, and her collection was auctioned off after her death. She was known for her generosity and supported many charitable causes throughout her life. Delubac was remembered by her colleagues in the French film industry for her intelligence, elegance, and talent.
In addition to her successful acting and producing career, Jacqueline Delubac was also a talented singer. She recorded several songs in the 1930s and 1940s, including "J'ai dansé avec l'amour" and "C'est la vie de bohème" which became popular hits in France. Delubac was also a gifted painter and held solo exhibitions of her artwork in Paris and New York. She had a close friendship with Pablo Picasso and the two artists often exchanged art and discussed their work. Delubac was fluent in several languages including English, Italian, and Spanish, which allowed her to work on international film productions. She was a feminist and advocated for women's rights throughout her life. Delubac was posthumously honored with a star on the Avenue des Champs-Élysées in Paris in 2003, recognizing her significant contributions to French cinema.
Jacqueline Delubac was born to a family of wealthy silk merchants in Lyon. However, she decided to pursue a career in acting and moved to Paris in the 1920s. She started her career on the stage, performing in several French theaters. In 1933, Delubac made her film debut in "Les Filles de la concierge", which was a commercial success. She quickly became one of the most sought-after actresses in the French film industry and appeared in several popular films such as "La Fin du jour" and "Lumières de Paris".
During World War II, Delubac became involved in the French Resistance and used her charm and fluency in several languages to gather information and deliver messages. She was arrested by the Gestapo in 1943 and spent several months in prison before being released due to lack of evidence.
After the war, Delubac became a producer and founded her own production company, Films du Prieuré. She produced several successful films, including "Obsession" and "Quai des Orfèvres". In 1950, she reprised her role as a resistance fighter in the film "Retour à la vie".
Throughout her career, Delubac was known for her impeccable sense of style and became a muse for several famous designers, including Christian Dior. She was also a patron of the arts and was involved in several charitable causes.
Delubac remained active in the French film industry well into her 80s and continued to be a respected figure in the arts and entertainment world. She was survived by her daughter, Dominique Meyer.
Darling Légitimus
Darling Légitimus (November 21, 1907 Le Carbet-December 7, 1999 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre) also known as Marie Berthilde Paruta was a French actor. She had one child, Théo Légitimus.
Légitimus was of Caribbean descent and began her career in the arts as a singer and dancer. She appeared in more than 50 films during her career, including the French classic "The Battle of the Rails" (1946) and the popular comedy "French Fried Vacation" (1978). Légitimus was also an accomplished stage actress, performing in both drama and comedy productions. In addition to her work on stage and screen, Légitimus was also an advocate for racial equality and social justice, often using her platform as a performer to speak out against discrimination. She was awarded the Legion of Honor in 1989 and continued to act until her death at the age of 92.
Légitimus was born in the French colony of Martinique and was raised by her grandmother. She moved to Paris at the age of 18 to pursue her career in entertainment. Légitimus was part of the touring group Les Milady's and performed on stages across Europe, including at the famed Moulin Rouge in Paris.
In 1939, Légitimus made her film debut in "Le Dernier Tournant." However, her career was interrupted by World War II, during which she worked as a nurse. After the war, Légitimus resumed her acting career and quickly established herself as a talented character actress. She often played maternal figures or grandmothers in films and was known for her warmth and humor on screen.
Légitimus also appeared on television, including in the popular French series "Châteauvallon" in the 1980s. She continued to work well into her 80s, appearing in films like "La crise" (1992) and "Le Gone du Chaâba" (1997).
In addition to her career accomplishments, Légitimus was also a respected voice in the fight for racial equality in France. She was a member of the anti-racist association SOS Racisme and was recognized for her activism with the Grand Prix de la Ville de Paris in 1993. Légitimus remained an important figure in French entertainment and society until her passing in 1999.
Légitimus was one of the few Black actresses in French cinema during her time and faced discrimination in the industry. She fought against this by pushing for more diverse representation in French media and for fair treatment of Black actors. In addition to her activism work, Légitimus also dedicated herself to promoting education and cultural exchange between the French Caribbean and mainland France. She founded the Darling Légitimus Academy in Martinique, which provides training for actors and other artists in the Caribbean. Légitimus was honored with the French Order of Arts and Letters in 1991 for her contributions to the arts and culture.
Throughout her career, Darling Légitimus was known for her powerful performances and her trailblazing activism. Her legacy as a performer and activist continues to inspire generations in France and beyond. In 2007, a theatre in Paris was renamed in her honour, the Théâtre de la Cité Internationale-Darling Légitimus. In 2021, the French government announced that her portrait will be added to France's National Portrait Gallery, alongside portraits of other influential figures in French history. Darling Légitimus was a true icon who used her platform to uplift underrepresented voices and make a lasting impact on both the entertainment industry and society as a whole.
Darling Légitimus was a true force to be reckoned with and her impact on French cinema and society is immeasurable. Beyond her numerous accolades, Légitimus was loved by many for her warm and maternal presence both on and off screen. She was a pioneer for Black actresses in France and a tireless advocate for social justice throughout her life.
Légitimus' legacy continues to live on through the many actors and artists she inspired, and her work laid the foundation for more diversity and representation in French media. Though she faced many challenges throughout her career, Légitimus remained steadfast in her dedication to her craft and her activism, never letting discrimination or prejudice hold her back.
She truly lived a remarkable life and her contributions to French culture will never be forgotten.
Agnès Capri
Agnès Capri (April 15, 1907 L'Arbresle-November 15, 1976 Paris) a.k.a. Sophie Rose Fridmann was a French singer, actor, radio producer, radio writer and theatre director.
Born in L'Arbresle, France in 1907, Agnès Capri showed a talent for singing at an early age. She began her career as a performer in the 1920s, and quickly gained a reputation for her beautiful voice and charming stage presence.
In the 1930s, Capri became increasingly involved in the French entertainment industry, taking on a variety of roles in film, radio and theatre. She produced and wrote for French radio, and directed several successful productions on the Parisian stage.
Despite her success, Capri remained humble and focused on her craft. She was known for her dedication to her work, often spending long hours rehearsing and perfecting her performances. Her hard work paid off, as she became one of the most beloved entertainers in France during the mid-20th century.
Capri continued to perform and work in the entertainment industry until her death in 1976 at the age of 69. Her legacy lives on, with many of her recordings, films and productions still enjoyed by audiences around the world today.
Throughout her career, Agnès Capri collaborated with several notable artists, including composer Joseph Kosma and actor Charles Vanel. She also worked with renowned French director Jean Renoir on several films, including "La Chienne" and "The Crime of Monsieur Lange." In 1950, Capri was awarded the prestigious Grand Prix du Disque for her recording of the song "L'homme en habit," cementing her status as one of France's top performers.
In addition to her artistic pursuits, Capri also had a passion for activism and social justice. She was a member of the French Resistance during World War II and used her platform to advocate for the rights of women and artists. Capri was also an early supporter of the LGBT community and performed at several events for LGBTQ rights organizations.
Despite facing several setbacks, including a difficult marriage and financial struggles, Agnès Capri remained a beloved figure in French entertainment and culture. She is remembered as a talented and dedicated artist and a fierce advocate for social justice.
Capri's activism and dedication to social justice were rooted in her own personal struggles. She was married twice, with her first husband being physically abusive towards her. She divorced him in 1941, which was a rare act for women in France at the time. Capri's second marriage was to a man who embezzled her earnings and left her in financial ruin. Despite these challenges, Capri remained resilient and continued to pursue her career with determination and grace.
In addition to her activism, Capri was also a philanthropist and donated to several charitable causes throughout her life. She was especially passionate about supporting organizations that helped children and animals.
Capri's influence on French entertainment has not gone unnoticed. In 2018, a street in the 10th arrondissement of Paris was named after her in recognition of her contributions to French culture. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of artists and activists in France and beyond.
In 1945, Agnès Capri played a significant role in the establishment of Radiodiffusion Française's women's programming. She was the director of the extensive range of programs that were designed to cater to women's tastes to appeal to a wider audience. Capri created and hosted several successful shows on the station, including "Le Club d'Essai des Amis des Livres" and "Le Club du Disque." Her work on these programs helped to bring literature, music, and other forms of entertainment to a larger audience.Capri was also a respected author in her own right, and published several books on a variety of topics. Her most famous works include "L'Art de la Danse" and "L'Histoire de la Musique," which were both widely praised for their insightful and comprehensive coverage of their respective subjects.Despite facing many challenges in her personal and professional life, Agnès Capri remained a beloved figure in French entertainment and culture. Her talent, dedication, and commitment to social justice continue to inspire artists and activists around the world today.
In addition to her artistic and activist pursuits, Agnès Capri was also an accomplished linguist. She spoke several languages fluently, including English, Spanish, and German, which helped her expand her repertoire as a performer and collaborate with international artists. Capri's linguistic talents also made her a valuable asset to the French Resistance during World War II, as she was able to use her language skills to gather and transmit information about the German occupation.Capri's versatility as an artist was evident in her work in both film and radio. She appeared in dozens of films throughout her career, including "Les Enfants Terribles" and "Day for Night," and was praised for her nuanced performances. On the radio, Capri was equally skilled at producing and hosting programs, earning her the nickname "La Voix d'Or" or "The Golden Voice." Her contributions to French radio earned her several honors, including the prestigious Prix Italia for her program "La Vie Parisienne" in 1959.Despite her many accomplishments, Capri remained committed to helping and supporting emerging artists. She often gave generously of her time and resources, mentoring young performers and promoting their work. Her impact on French culture and entertainment cannot be overstated, and she continues to be celebrated as one of France's most beloved and talented artists.