Jean Marais French actor Date of Birth: 11.12.1913 Country: France

Biography of Jean Marais

Jean Alfred Villain-Marais was born on December 11, 1913, in Cherbourg, France. He grew up in a tumultuous household, with his mother Alin Marie Louise Vassor known for her eccentricity and penchant for telling fantastical stories. Despite his troubled upbringing, Marais developed a love for theater and painting as he got older.

Marais began his acting career in the film industry, appearing in several movies by director L'Herbier. However, his career was interrupted by his military service during World War II. After the war, Marais returned to acting and joined the theater company "Atelier" to further hone his skills. His breakthrough came with his role in Jean Cocteau's play "King Oedipus," and he continued to collaborate with Cocteau until the director's death.

During the post-war renaissance of French cinema, Marais became a highly acclaimed actor. He starred in films such as "Beauty and the Beast" (1946), "The Terrible Parents" (1948), and "Orpheus" (1949), solidifying his reputation as a great actor. Marais was known for his graceful swordfighting skills and daring stunts, often performing them without the use of a stunt double.

Aside from his acting career, Marais also dabbled in poetry, painting, and sculpture. He even created a bronze monument titled "Passing through the Wall" in honor of his friend writer Marcel Ayme. Despite advice from Pablo Picasso to focus solely on his artistic pursuits, Marais remained dedicated to both the stage and the silver screen.

Jean Marais passed away in 1998, leaving behind a legacy of over a hundred films, numerous stage performances, and various artistic endeavors. He was buried in the Valloires Cemetery, where he had lived during his later years.