Patrick Dewaere was a French actor known for his roles in Going Places, Get Out Your Handkerchiefs, and Beau-père. He gained fame for his ability to portray troubled and complex characters while often using dark humor in his performances.
Personal and Family Life
Born Patrick Jean Marie Henri Bourdeaux on January 26, 1947, in Saint Brieuc, Brittany, France, he was the third of six children in a family of actors. His mother, Mado Maurin, was an actress, and all of his siblings also pursued acting careers. Patrick had two daughters, Angèle Herry-Leclerc with actress Miou-Miou, and Lola Dewaere with his second wife, Elsa Chalier.
Career Highlights
Patrick started acting at a young age and had his film debut at just four years old. He found acclaim later in his career with significant roles in films like Going Places, where he played Pierrot, and The Best Way. Despite his popularity in France, his work did not achieve international fame, but he was known for being a unique talent in the European film scene.
Death and Legacy
Dewaere’s life came to a tragic end on July 16, 1982, when he died by suicide in Paris. This was just weeks before the release of Paradis pour tous, a film in which his character also takes his own life. His death shocked fans, friends, and family, and his life and work have continued to inspire projects, including a documentary and an award named after him.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Les Valseuses | 1974-03-20 | Pierrot |
| Mille milliards de dollars | 1982-02-09 | Paul Kerjean |
| Catherine et Cie | 1975-10-29 | François |
| Préparez vos mouchoirs | 1978-01-11 | Stéphane |
| Coup de tête | 1979-02-14 | François Perrin |
| Beau-père | 1981-09-15 | Rémi |
| Série noire | 1979-04-25 | Franck Poupart |
| Paradis pour tous | 1982-08-25 | Alain Durieux |
| Hotel America | 1981-12-02 | Gilles Tisserand |
| Get Out Your Handkerchiefs | 1978-01-11 | Stéphane |
| Hothead | 1979-02-14 | François Perrin |