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Radio France Internationale
Radio France Internationale
National

France and the world says good-bye to French film icon Jean-Paul Belmondo

French President Emmanuel Macron attends a national tribute for late actor Jean-Paul Belmondo during a ceremony at the Hotel des Invalides in Paris, France, September 9, 2021. REUTERS - ERIC GAILLARD

In a rare national event commemorating the life of iconic French actor Jean-Paul Belmondo, President Emmanuel Macron gave a eulogy, speaking of the breadth of his career, from the New Wave genre to his action movies.

"We loved Jean-Paul Belmondo, because he looked like us," said Macron.

French President Emmanuel Macron pays his respects in front of the flag-draped coffin of late actor Jean-Paul Belmondo during a ceremony at the Hotel des Invalides in Paris, France
French President Emmanuel Macron pays his respects in front of the flag-draped coffin of late actor Jean-Paul Belmondo during a ceremony at the Hotel des Invalides in Paris, France REUTERS - ERIC GAILLARD

This event in Paris is taking place just three days after his death in the capital, aged 88.

Richard Anconina arrives to attend a national tribute to the late actor Jean-Paul Belmondo during a ceremony at the Hotel des Invalides in Paris, France, September 9, 2021.
Richard Anconina arrives to attend a national tribute to the late actor Jean-Paul Belmondo during a ceremony at the Hotel des Invalides in Paris, France, September 9, 2021. REUTERS - ERIC GAILLARD

The sendoff, agreed to by his family, had a number of French artists and actors in attendance, including the singer Patrick Bruel and actors Jean Dujardin, Guillaume Canet and Gilles Lellouche.

French actor Jean Dujardin.
French actor Jean Dujardin. AFP - IAN LANGSDON

Macron was in attendance with his wife, Brigitte, and Prime Minister Jean Castex.

The ceremony was open to 1,000 members of the public who have a health pass, but those unable to get in watched the ceremony on two jumbotron screens outside the venue, which included scenes from his biggest movies as well.

Victor Belmondo delivers a speech alongside Stella Belmondo, daughter of the late Jean-Paul Belmondo, and Belmondo's grandchildren.
Victor Belmondo delivers a speech alongside Stella Belmondo, daughter of the late Jean-Paul Belmondo, and Belmondo's grandchildren. REUTERS - ERIC GAILLARD
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