Mireille Balin was an American actor who is best known for Pépé le Moko, Lady Killer, and L’assedio dell’Alcazar. Born on July 20, 1909, in Monte-Carlo, Monaco, she became one of the most celebrated actresses of pre-war French cinema.
Personal and Family Life
Mireille Balin, whose birth name was Blanche Mireille Césarine Balin, had a diverse heritage; her father was from Monaco, and her mother was Italian. She was fluent in Italian, which was evident in her role in the film L’assedio dell’Alcazar, where she was not dubbed. Throughout her life, she faced numerous challenges, including a tumultuous relationship with singer Tino Rossi, which ended during the German occupation of France.
Career Highlights
Balin starred in iconic French films during the 1930s, including Pépé le Moko and Lady Killer, both opposite the renowned actor Jean Gabin. Her performances earned her a place in Paris High Society, where she met Birl Desbok, the love of her life. However, her life took a tragic turn as World War II progressed, leading to her arrest and subsequent struggles during and after the war.
Death and Legacy
Mireille Balin passed away on November 9, 1968, in Clichy-la-Garenne, France, due to cirrhosis. At the time of her death, she was largely forgotten and lived in poverty. Despite her heartbreaking end, her contributions to French cinema remain a part of film history, and she is remembered as one of its glamorous icons.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Pépé le Moko | 1937-01-28 | Gaby |
| L’assassin a peur la nuit | 1942-09-02 | Lola Gracieuse |
| Naples au baiser de feu | 1937-12-07 | Assunta |
| Si j’étais le patron | 1934-10-25 | Marcelle |
| Le sexe faible | 1933-01-01 | Nicole |
| Dernier atout | 1942-09-02 | Bella Score |
| Gueule d’amour | 1937-09-15 | Madeleine Courtois, l’aventurière |
| L’assedio dell’Alcazar | 1940-01-02 | Carmen Herrera |
| Macao, l’enfer du jeu | 1942-04-11 | Mireille |
| La dernière chevauchée | 1947-03-28 | |
| Amour et sexe sous l’Occupation | 2011-10-11 | Self (archival footage) |