Actor, screenwriter and director Michel Blanc, best known for his iconic role with the Splendid troupe, died at the age of 72 on the night of October 3 to 4, following a heart attack in a Paris hospital. With decades of outstanding contributions to French cinema, Blanc leaves behind an unforgettable body of work, both comic and dramatic.
Michel Blanc died at the age of 72 on the night of Thursday October 3 to Friday October 4 in Paris, following cardiac arrest due to anaphylactic shock following a medical examination. Born in Courbevoie, he first came to prominence on stage with the Splendid troupe, alongside Christian Clavier, Gérard Jugnot, Thierry Lhermitte and Josiane Balasko. A pillar of French cinema who, in addition to his comedic roles, impressed audiences with his ability to portray complex, dramatic characters.
Initially known for his comic roles as Jean-Claude Dusse in Patrice Leconte‘s The Bronzed (1978), Michel Blanc established a unique style, playing characters both hilarious and exasperating. But far from locking himself into a single register, he took the bold gamble of diversifying his career with darker, more dramatic roles, such as Antoine in Bertrand Blier‘s Evening wear (1986), which won him the Best Actor Award at Cannesor Patrice Leconte‘s psychological Mr Hire (1989).
Michel Blanc’s key roles
Michel Blanc first came to public attention with the cult films of Le Splendidsome of which are listed below:
- Patrice Leconte’sThe Bronzed (1978): Jean-Claude Dusse‘s clumsy, desperate role made him immensely popular. The film became a classic of French comedy.
- Tanned people go skiing (1979): Continuation of the gang’s adventures, with Jean-Claude Dusse as hilarious as ever.
- Walk in the shade (1984): Comedy directed by Michel Blanc, in which he plays Denisa failed musician. The film was a great success, consolidating his status as a popular comic.
A career focused on more dramatic roles
Although he made his name with his “loser” characters, Michel Blanc soon sought to explore other registers. His most famous dramatic roles include:
- Evening wear (1986) by Bertrand Blier: He plays Antoinea transvestite, in a black comedy. His performance earned him the Best Actor Award at Cannes.
- Mr Hire (1989) by Patrice Leconte: Adapted from a novel by Georges Simenonthis dramatic film features a solitary, disturbing man who obsesses a young woman.
Talented director and screenwriter
Michel Blanc was not only an actor, he also made his mark behind the camera. He directed several films, often tinged with derision and self-mockery:
- Very tired (1994): Directed and written by Michel Blanc, this film, which recounts the misadventures of an actor harassed by his double, won the Screenplay Prize at the Cannes Film Festival.
- Kiss whoever you want (2002): This acid comedy about relationships confirms his talent as a director. The film features an impressive cast, including Charlotte Rampling and Carole Bouquet.
Recognition and awards
Throughout his career, Michel Blanc has received numerous awards for his work:
- Best Actor Award at Cannes (1986) for Evening wear.
- Screenplay prize at Cannes (1994) for Very tired.
- Molière for adapter (2004) for Love is the child of a bastard.
- César for Best Supporting Actor (2012) for State Exercisein which he plays a political advisor.
The Splendid legacy
The success of Les Tanned 3 (2006) may not have been a critical success, but Michel Blanc has never denied his years with the Splendid troupe. Until recently, he spoke fondly of his lifelong accomplices, while acknowledging that the comedic style of the time had evolved. In 2021, theAcademy of Caesar awarded the Splendid an anniversary Caesar in recognition of the troupe’s impact on French cinema.
With his death, an important chapter in French cinema is closing. Michel Blanc leaves behind unforgettable roles, sharp scripts and a career marked by audacity, rigor and talent.
