From Marion Cotillard’s Oscar-winning turn as Édith Piaf to Catherine Deneuve’s regal portrayal of Catherine de Medici, these French actresses have brought historical figures to life. So let's celebrate French history, French culture and French cinema all at once!

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Marion Cotillard as Édith Piaf in La Vie en Rose

When it comes to French actresses embodying historical figures, Marion Cotillard’s performance in La Vie en Rose (La Môme) is legendary. Her portrayal of the iconic French singer, Édith Piaf, won her an Academy Award, making her the first French actress to win Best Actress for a French-language role. Cotillard’s transformation into Piaf was nothing short of astonishing—her expressive performance, combined with detailed physical changes, completely immersed audiences in Piaf’s tragic yet extraordinary life. This French film by Olivier Dahan remains one of the most celebrated French biopics of all time.

Watch Marion Cotillard on TV5MONDEplus, in the French comedy "Toi et moi".

Catherine Deneuve as Bernadette Chirac in Bernadette

In the 2023 French movie Bernadette, Catherine Deneuve takes on the role of Bernadette Chirac, the former First Lady of France. The film presents a satirical and poignant take on Bernadette’s life, exploring how she navigated political and personal challenges while being overshadowed by her husband, President Jacques Chirac. Deneuve’s nuanced performance captures Bernadette’s resilience, wit, and ambition, offering audiences an insightful look at a woman who fought to carve out her own legacy in French politics.

Watch one of Catherine Deneuve's breakout role, Peau d'âne, on TV5MONDEplus

Romy Schneider as Empress Elisabeth of Austria in Sissi

Though Austrian-born, Romy Schneider became a beloved figure in French film, and her role as Empress Elisabeth of Austria, better known as Sissi, remains one of her most famous performances. The Sissi trilogy (1955-1957) catapulted Schneider to international stardom. Her delicate beauty and regal demeanor made her the perfect choice to portray the beloved empress, whose life was marked by romance, tragedy, and duty. Schneider’s later career in French cinema, including collaborations with Gérard Depardieu and Alain Delon, only cemented her status as a screen legend. Learn about the incredible life of Romy Schneider in the documentary Romy Schneider: Face à son destin on TV5MONDEplus

Isabelle Huppert as Costanza Colonna in L'ombra di Caravaggio (Caravaggio’s Shadow)

Renowned for her fearless performances, Isabelle Huppert took on the role of Costanza Colonna in L'ombra di Caravaggio (Caravaggio’s Shadow, 2022). As one of the most influential women in the life of the famed Italian painter Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, Costanza Colonna was a noblewoman who provided protection and support to the controversial artist. Huppert’s portrayal of Costanza exudes intelligence and quiet strength, offering a complex and layered depiction of a woman navigating the treacherous political and religious climate of the time.

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Juliette Binoche as Marie Curie in Radioactive

Known for her versatility, Juliette Binoche has portrayed a wide range of complex characters, but her role as Marie Curie in Radioactive (2019) is particularly notable. The film explores the scientific achievements and personal struggles of the Nobel Prize-winning physicist, highlighting the sacrifices Curie made in her pursuit of discovery.

Stream Un divan à New York with Juliette Binoche on TV5MONDEplus

Isabelle Adjani as Marguerite de Valois in Queen Margot

Isabelle Adjani, a five-time César Award winner and one of France’s most respected actresses, delivered a stunning performance as Marguerite de Valois (Queen Margot) in the 1994 epic La Reine Margot. Set against the backdrop of 16th-century France, the film explores political and religious turmoil, with Adjani at the heart of the drama. Her fierce yet vulnerable portrayal earned her international acclaim, further proving why she is one of the most talented French actresses of her generation.

Eva Green as Milady de Winter in The Three Musketeers: D’Artagnan

Known for her enigmatic presence in Hollywood and French films, Eva Green delivered a commanding performance as Milady de Winter in the latest adaptation of The Three Musketeers: D’Artagnan (2023). While Milady is a fictional character, she is inspired by historical figures and embodies the cunning and ruthlessness of real-life political players from the 17th century.

Léa Seydoux as Belle in Beauty and the Beast

While not a strictly historical role, Léa Seydoux’s performance as Belle in La Belle et la Bête (2014) deserves mention. The film draws inspiration from the 18th-century fairy tale, deeply embedded in French culture. Seydoux, known for her captivating performances in films like Blue is the Warmest Color and Hollywood productions, brings a mix of grace and strength to the role, making it one of the most visually stunning adaptations of the classic story.

Brigitte Bardot as Jeanne in Viva Maria!

A cultural icon and one of the most famous French actresses in history, Brigitte Bardot took on the role of Jeanne in Viva Maria! (1965), a revolutionary adventure film directed by Louis Malle. While not strictly a historical figure, Jeanne represents the spirit of female revolutionaries in 19th-century Latin America. Bardot’s charisma and screen presence made the film a cult classic, further proving her versatility beyond her sex-symbol image.

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Where to Watch These Captivating Performances

For those who love French cinema and want to watch these brilliant performances, TV5MONDE USA offers a vast selection of French films featuring legendary French actresses. Additionally, the streaming platform TV5MONDEplus provides access to an extensive library of French movies, making it easier than ever to discover the magic of French storytelling from anywhere in the world.

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