Jacques Sereys

Jacques Sereys (June 2, 1928 – January 1, 2023) was a distinguished French actor and theatre director, known for his extensive contributions to the performing arts.

Born in Marseille and raised by a single mother who worked as an embroiderer, Sereys began his professional journey early, securing a job at Crédit Lyonnais at just 14. His passion for acting led him to the Conservatoire national supérieur d'art dramatique in 1951, where he studied under renowned instructor Henri Rollan. Sereys joined the prestigious Comédie-Française in 1955, initially as an associate and later earning the title of sociétaire in 1959.

In 1964, he ventured into boulevard theatre, collaborating with notable figures such as Jacques Charon and Robert Hirsch. However, his affinity for the Comédie-Française brought him back in 1977, where he regained his sociétaire status in 1979. Sereys remained a vital presence at the Comédie-Française until his retirement in 1997, subsequently honored as an honorary sociétaire, and continued performing until 2014.

His personal life included a marriage to actress Philippine Pascal (Philippine de Rothschild), with whom he had two children, Camille (1961) and Philippe (1963). The couple divorced in 1999, and their children ultimately inherited ownership of the prestigious Château Mouton Rothschild and other vineyards.

Jacques Sereys passed away on January 1, 2023, at the age of 94, leaving behind a rich legacy in French theatre.