A prominent French actor, he was born on December 24, 1938, and became renowned for his roles in intense, often gritty films. His career spanned several decades, during which he frequently collaborated with director Gaspar Noé, appearing in movies like "I Stand Alone" and "Irreversible." Known for his compelling and sometimes unsettling performances, he became a staple of French cinema. His contributions to film were celebrated for their depth and authenticity until his passing in April 2020.