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Thursday, December 14, 2023

Jane Birkin

Acting Appreciation 

Actress and singer Jane Birkin was a renowned figure in the world of entertainment, celebrated for her iconic contribution to film, music, and fashion.

Born on December 14, 1946, in Marylebone, London, Jane Mallory Birkin was the daughter of an English theatre actress and a father who served as a lieutenant commander in the Royal Navy and a World War II spy.

At 17, Jane married John Barry, the renowned English composer and conductor of film music, best known for his scores in eleven James Bond films between 1963 and 1987. The marriage concluded when Barry moved to the United States.

Seeking her passion for acting, Jane auditioned for roles in the UK, securing parts in films like "Kaleidoscope" (1966), "Blowup" (1966), and "Wonderwall" (1968). Her aspirations led her to France, where she starred in the French satirical romantic comedy-drama "Slogan" (1969) and crossed paths with the legendary French musician Serge Gainsbourg.

Their collaboration produced the sensual and provocative duet "Je t'aime... moi non plus," propelling Jane to international fame. Throughout the 1970s, she released three albums, predominantly written by Gainsbourg.

In film, Jane appeared in diverse genres during the '70s, including "Dark Places" (1973), "Catherine & Co." (1975), "Sept morts sur ordonnance" (1975), "Je t'aime moi non plus" (1976), earning her first César Award nomination, and "Animal" (1977).

Despite separating from Gainsbourg in 1980, he continued writing her music until his death in 1991. In 1996, Jane released "Versions Jane," a tribute album featuring Gainsbourg covers.

In 1981, she starred in the French film "La Fille prodigue," directed by Jacques Doillon, sparking a 13-year relationship.

Throughout the '80s, Birkin balanced film roles with music. Notable films include "La pirate" (1984), earning her a César Award nomination, "Leave All Fair" (1985), "The Woman of My Life" (1986), and "Kung Fu Master" (1988), co-written by Birkin. She also influenced the fashion world by inspiring the creation of the iconic Birkin bag by Hermès.

Jane Birkin continues to shine as a multifaceted artist, seamlessly transitioning between acting, music, and humanitarian work. Her enduring impact, timeless beauty, and immense talent ensure her place as a cherished figure in the hearts of many, with a legacy destined to endure for generations.

By David Thorpe (Getty Image)

REPORTERS ASSOCIES (Getty Images)

REPORTERS ASSOCIES/Gamma-Rapho

Playboy (November 1970)

Serge Gainsbourg & Jane Birkin - Je t'aime... moi non plus (Fontana 1969)

Source:

https://www.scopeweekly.com/2023/07/jane-birkin-fashion-style-through-time/

https://www.harpersbazaar.com/uk/culture/culture-news/a44555194/jane-birkin-life-legacy/

https://www.harpersbazaar.com/celebrity/latest/g44756375/32-rare-photos-of-jane-birkin-through-the-years/

https://www.veranda.com/luxury-lifestyle/luxury-fashion-jewelry/g34946530/jane-birkin-style/

https://www.wsj.com/articles/jane-birkin-women-over-40-49e913ef

https://www.vanityfair.com/style/2023/07/jane-birkin-in-photos

https://observer.com/2023/07/jane-birkin-the-icons-life-in-movies-and-music/#:~:text=Contrary%20to%20her%20French%20affiliations,)%20and%20Wonderwall%20(1968)

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/07/16/arts/music/jane-birkin-french-icon.html

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