Lyne Chardonnet's life seemed destined for greatness, as if blessed by the gods, with a radiant beauty, a wasp-waisted physique, and a good drama training that would have made her a natural fit for the silver screen. Born two decades too late, she would have thrived in an era when ingénues like herself were in high demand, before the French New Wave revolutionized the film industry. Alas, she was born in the wrong era, and her opportunities were limited to a handful of roles that showcased her talent, such as her portrayal of Jacotte in Michel Deville's elegant film 'Benjamin' (1967) alongside Pierre Clémenti and Michel Piccoli, or her tragic turn as Marie Vetsera's younger sister in Terence Young's adaptation of 'Mayerling' (1968).
Despite this promising start, roles soon dried up, leaving her with only brief appearances as a blond hostess, secretary, or even a nun. It was a cruel fate for one so talented and beautiful. Lyne Chardonnet was born in Paris during the final years of World War II to a fakir, Léopold Chardonnet, and his wife, Ellen Shapiro, of Irish descent. From a young age, Lyne was already taking dancing lessons, starting at the tender age of five.
(Lyne Chardonnet's biography continues below)
Born: Paris, France, during the final years of World War II
Parents: Léopold Chardonnet (fakir) and Ellen Shapiro (Irish origin)
Age: 5, when she began taking dancing lessons
