Jean Lapointe

Jean Lapointe (December 6, 1935 - November 18, 2022) was a multifaceted talent from Quebec, known for his work as an actor, comedian, and singer, along with his notable role as a Canadian Senator.

His career commenced alongside Jérôme Lemay as part of the comedic duo Les Jérolas, where they gained prominence performing on international platforms such as The Ed Sullivan Show and the renowned Olympia in Paris. In 1974, Lapointe embarked on a solo journey that led him to release several albums, primarily produced by Yves Lapierre, and to star in two feature films. Beyond entertainment, he was passionate about social issues and founded the Jean Lapointe Foundation, dedicated to combating alcoholism and drug addiction.

In recognition of his contributions, Lapointe was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1984 and later, in 2001, he was appointed to the Senate by Prime Minister Jean Chrétien, serving as a Liberal until his mandatory retirement in 2010. His accolades include being honored as an Officer of the National Order of Quebec in 2006.

Additionally, Lapointe was an avid philatelist, serving as a life member of the Royal Philatelic Society of Canada and participating in the Stamp Advisory Committee of Canada Post. In 2005, he was celebrated with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Francophone SOCAN Awards in Montreal. A horse racing enthusiast, he owned the sprinter Diapason, who claimed victory in the 1984 Nearctic Stakes and earned the title of Canadian Champion Sprint Horse that same year.