Jean Rochefort was a French actor with a remarkable career spanning over six decades, from April 29, 1930, until his passing on October 9, 2017.
Born in Paris, France, Rochefort was educated at the Lycée Pierre Corneille in Rouen, where he developed a passion for the arts. At the tender age of 19, he entered the Centre d'Art Dramatique de la rue Blanche, and later joined the Conservatoire National to hone his craft.
Rochefort's early career saw him work as a theatre actor with the Compagnie Grenier Hussenot for seven years, during which he showcased his impressive range, effortlessly transitioning between drama and comedy. He then ventured into television and cinema, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and talented actor.
In his 30s, while filming Cartouche, Rochefort discovered his love for horses and equestrianism, a passion that would stay with him for the rest of his life. He went on to become a renowned horse breeder, owning Le Haras de Villequoy, and even served as a horse consultant for French television in 2004.
Throughout his illustrious career, Rochefort received numerous accolades, including two César Awards for Best Supporting Actor in 1976 for Que la fête commence and Best Actor in 1978 for Le Crabe-tambour.
Rochefort was set to star in Terry Gilliam's The Man Who Killed Don Quixote, with the director himself declaring him the "perfect Quixote." To prepare for the role, Rochefort learned English, but unfortunately, production was cancelled due to his recurring herniated disc and subsequent inability to film.
In a surprising turn of events, the film's production was revived, and Rochefort was recast with Robert Duvall, due to his physical limitations.
In his personal life, Rochefort married Alexandra Moscwa in 1960, with whom he had two children, Marie (born 1962) and Julien (born 1965).
In a delightful display of his creative range, Rochefort collaborated with the French band Dionysos in 2007, contributing a short verse to their song "L'homme sans trucage."
