Date of Birth: December 11, 1913
Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius
Date of Death: November 8, 1998
Biography
Jean-Alfred Villain-Marais, known professionally as Jean Marais, was a renowned French actor, writer, director, and sculptor. Born in Cherbourg, France, Marais began his acting career in the 1930s and rose to fame during the 1940s and 1950s. He is best known for his collaboration with the legendary director Jean Cocteau, starring in films such as “Beauty and the Beast” (1946), “Orpheus” (1950), and “Testament of Orpheus” (1960). Marais’s striking looks, charismatic presence, and versatile talent made him a beloved figure in French cinema. Apart from his film career, he also had a successful stint in theater and television. In addition to acting, Marais was an accomplished sculptor, with his works exhibited in various galleries. His personal life was marked by his long-term relationship with Jean Cocteau, which was both a professional and romantic partnership. Marais’s legacy in the arts extends beyond his death, as he remains an iconic figure in French culture.
5 Interesting Facts about Jean Marais
1. Jean Marais was a talented sculptor, and some of his sculptures are on display in public spaces across France.
2. He was awarded the Legion of Honour, one of France’s highest honors, for his contributions to the arts.
3. Marais served in the French Army during World War II and was a part of the French Resistance.
4. He wrote several books, including his autobiography “Histoires de ma vie” (Stories of My Life).
5. Jean Marais was openly gay, a rarity for public figures of his time, and his relationship with Jean Cocteau was widely known and accepted.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Jean Marais
1. “My life belongs to the public, and my heart belongs to those I love.”
2. “Acting is not about being someone different. It’s finding the similarity in what is apparently different, then finding myself in there.”
3. “Art is a way to express what words cannot.”
4. “The beauty of life is in the details.”
5. “Cinema is a mirror of the world and of ourselves.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the height of his career, Jean Marais’s net worth was estimated to be around $10 million.
Children
Jean Marais did not have any biological children. However, he was a mentor to many young actors and artists throughout his life.
Relevant Links
1. [Jean Marais – IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0547103/
2. [Jean Marais – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jean_Marais
3. [Jean Marais – AllMovie](https://www.allmovie.com/artist/jean-marais-p45564
5. [Jean Marais Sculptures](https://www.artnet.com/artists/jean-marais/