Jalil Lespert

Jalil Lespert, born to actor Jean Lespert and lawyer Farida Azi, has carved a notable path in the French film industry. His father, born in 1942 in Rosny-sous-Bois, and his mother, of Algerian descent, born in 1948 in Palestro (now Lakhdaria, Algeria), played a significant role in shaping his early life. He is also the elder brother of actor Yaniss Lespert.

Initially encouraged by his mother to pursue a career in law, Jalil's career took a turn in 1995 when he was discovered by director Laurent Cantet, who cast him alongside his father in the short film *Jeux de Plage*. This collaboration led to further opportunities, including the TV film *Les Sanguinaires* in 1997 and a breakthrough role in the cinematic release *Ressources Humaines* in 1999, for which he won the César for Best Male Actor in 2001. His talent continued to shine in films like *Vivre me tue*, earning him the Best New Actor award at the 2003 Cabourg Film Festival.

Lespert has also established himself as a director, debuting with *24 mesures* in 2007, followed by the well-received adaptation of *Contrary Winds* and the biopic *Yves Saint-Laurent* in 2014. He contributed to the successful series *Versailles* in 2015 and starred in *Iris* the following year. His recent work includes starring roles in *La terre des hommes* and *L’Enfant rêve* in 2020.

On a personal note, he was in a relationship with Sonia Rolland until their separation in 2018 and has two children with actress Bérangère Allaux. In December 2020, Lespert publicly confirmed his relationship with Laeticia Hallyday, the widow of Johnny Hallyday. Beyond his film career