For decades, one of France’s most iconic actresses captivated the world with her graceful aging. Known for roles in films like The Umbrellas of Cherbourg and Belle de Jour, she became a symbol of elegance during the French New Wave. Celebrated for portraying complex characters, she was named one of the top 25 actors of the 21st century by the New York Times.

The actress often spoke about the challenges of aging in the film industry, noting that France offered more roles for older women compared to the U.S. She embraced aging naturally, saying, “You should try not to push against time too much,” crediting her family for helping her see the world differently.

While renowned for her beauty, she acknowledged the pressure it brought, especially when she was young. However, as she aged, she grew comfortable with herself, realizing that aging, while difficult, wasn’t the catastrophe many made it out to be. She also highlighted the importance of not clinging to the past, stating, “There’s nothing gained by preserving an appearance that no longer corresponds with reality.”

In 2019, after suffering a stroke, the actress reflected more on aging and mortality. Despite her health struggles, she maintained her trademark resilience. Jokingly, she claimed she never had cosmetic surgery simply because she “hadn’t found the time for it,” attributing her looks to good genetics.