Francis Leplay

Francis Leplay is a multifaceted French talent known for his work as an actor, film director, and novelist. He honed his craft at France's National Academy of Dramatic Arts and furthered his education at Sciences Po. Leplay's television journey began with appearances in popular French detective shows such as **Julie Lescaut** and **Navarro**. His film debut came in 1997 with **J'ai horreur de l'amour** (I Hate Love), directed by Laurence Ferreira Barbosa.

Leplay gained prominence in the 2000s, collaborating with esteemed directors like Sofia Coppola, Noémie Lvovsky, Arnaud Desplechin, and Benoît Jacquot. He also appeared in the acclaimed television series **Spiral**, showcasing his versatility across both mediums.

In addition to film and television, Leplay has an impressive theater background, performing under the guidance of notable directors such as Denis Podalydès and Lambert Wilson at prestigious venues like Lincoln Center, the Mossovet Theatre, and the Bouffes du Nord.

As an author, he published two novels through Éditions du Seuil: **Après le spectacle** in 2006, a reflection on the uncertainties of acting and love, and **Samuel et Alexandre** in 2009, which navigates the complexities of male friendship.

In 2021, he co-directed the innovative docufiction **Acts of Love** with French-American filmmaker Isidore Bethel, which was showcased at the Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival, further emphasizing his creative range.