Michael Youn French actor, comedian and singer Date of Birth: 02.12.1973 Country: France

1. Childhood and Education
2. Radio and Television Career
3. Music: Les Bratisla Boys and Fatal Bazooka
4. Film and Television Acting Career
5. Directorial Debut and Continued Success
6. Personal Life
7. Present Day

Childhood and Education

Mikaël Benayoun (Mickaël Youn), born on December 2nd, 1973, in Suresnes, France, is renowned for his multifaceted career as an actor, comedian, and singer. With a diverse ancestry that includes Moroccan, Jewish, Algerian, Italian, and Hungarian roots, Youn's upbringing was marked by his parents' professions in football and human resources.

Displaying his artistic talents at a young age, Youn began piano lessons at the age of 5. Despite his interest in music, he excelled academically in a science-oriented high school. Pursuing higher education in economics and business, he graduated from the Institute of Economics and Trade in Nice in 1996.

Radio and Television Career

Youn's career took an unexpected turn when he ventured into the world of radio. After completing a two-year journalism internship, he showcased his wit and humor as a writer and phone line host. Simultaneously, he attended acting and voice-over classes, eventually landing a morning show on Radio Skyrock that catapulted him to fame.

In 2000, Youn's popularity as a radio host caught the attention of television producers. He joined the team of Métropôle-6's "Morning Live," where he collaborated with Vincent Desagnat and Benjamin Morgaine to create hilarious sketches, parodies, and street stunts.

Music: Les Bratisla Boys and Fatal Bazooka

Together with his comedy trio, Youn formed the musical group Les Bratisla Boys, gaining recognition with their humorous songs in an invented Slavic language. The group's success led to the formation of Fatal Bazooka, which released a series of parody hits and music videos that topped the French charts.

Film and Television Acting Career

Youn's acting debut came in the 2000 comedy "Les Truffes," where he played a con artist. His eccentric comedic style and versatility were showcased in subsequent roles, including an art gallery director in "Around the World in 80 Days" and a lift technician in "La boîte" (2004).

As Youn's recognition grew, he began to take on more substantial roles. In 2007, he played the lead in the thriller "Heroes," and in 2009, he portrayed the protagonist in the crime comedy "Coursier."

Directorial Debut and Continued Success

In 2010, Youn made his directorial debut with the musical comedy "Fatal," in which he also wrote the screenplay and played the lead role. He continued to impress audiences with his comedic timing in "Chef" (2012), co-starring with Jean Reno.

Youn's filmography boasts many critically acclaimed projects, including "Showbiz in Paris: A Pig's Tale" (2012) and "Lucky Luke" (2021). He has also starred in the television series "Tu veux ou tu veux pas?" and the Netflix animated film "SamSam."

Personal Life

Youn's personal life has been marked by several notable relationships. His long-term civil partnership with actress Juliette Arnaud from the late 1990s ended after six years. He later met Spanish actress Elsa Pataky on the set of "Iznogoud" but their relationship was short-lived.

In 2008, Youn began a relationship with actress and model Isabelle Funaro, with whom he welcomed a daughter and a son. The couple's social media presence reflects their family life, with Youn often sharing photos of his loved ones.

Present Day

Youn continues to be active in film and television, starring in the upcoming comedy "BDE" and the ongoing series "Lucky Luke." His unwavering dedication to his craft has solidified his status as one of France's most beloved entertainers.