Maurice Chevalier

Date of Birth: September 12, 1888

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Date of Death: January 1, 1972

Biography

Maurice Chevalier, born Maurice Auguste Chevalier on September 12, 1888, in Paris, France, was a renowned French actor, singer, and entertainer. He is best remembered for his signature straw hat and charming, debonair personality. Chevalier began his career in the entertainment industry as a singer at the age of 13 and quickly rose to prominence in the French music hall scene. His breakthrough role came in 1922 when he starred in the musical revue “Dédé,” which led to a successful career in Hollywood. Chevalier’s Hollywood career took off in the late 1920s and early 1930s, where he starred in several successful films such as “The Love Parade” (1929), “The Big Pond” (1930), and “Love Me Tonight” (1932). He became known for his charming on-screen persona and his ability to blend singing and acting seamlessly. During World War II, Chevalier faced controversy for his alleged collaboration with the Vichy regime, although he was later cleared of these accusations. After the war, he continued to perform and make films, achieving a successful comeback in the 1950s and 1960s with roles in movies like “Gigi” (1958) and “Can-Can” (1960). Chevalier’s career spanned over six decades, and he remained active in the entertainment industry until his retirement in the late 1960s. He passed away on January 1, 1972, in Paris, leaving behind a legacy as one of France’s most beloved entertainers.

5 Interesting Facts about Maurice Chevalier

1. Maurice Chevalier was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actor twice, for his roles in “The Love Parade” (1929) and “The Big Pond” (1930).

2. He recorded the famous song “Thank Heaven for Little Girls” for the movie “Gigi” (1958), which became one of his signature songs.

3. Chevalier was awarded an honorary Oscar in 1959 for his contributions to the entertainment industry.

4. He was a skilled linguist and could speak English fluently, which helped him achieve success in Hollywood.

5. Maurice Chevalier was knighted by the French government and received the Légion d’honneur, France’s highest civilian honor.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Maurice Chevalier

1. “Old age isn’t so bad when you consider the alternative.”

2. “If you wait for the perfect moment when all is safe and assured, it may never arrive. Mountains will not be climbed, races won, or lasting happiness achieved.”

3. “I never eat when I’m in Paris. When I’m in Paris, I feast.”

4. “A man must have his moments of madness.”

5. “Youth is a wonderful thing. What a crime to waste it on children.”