Anny Duperey, the renowned actress and author, is back in the spotlight with her new book, Respire, c’est de l’iode !, which offers a poignant glimpse into her life and reflections on motherhood and the passage of time. During a recent conversation, she shared her thoughts on various aspects of her existence, demonstrating her characteristic humor and sincerity.
On April 17, 2025, Duperey was at her home in the Creuse region, where she spent the morning planting seedlings in her greenhouse. "It was 2 degrees this morning," she remarked, highlighting the chilly weather as she prepared for the arrival of her six grandchildren, aged between 3 and 14. This house, which she created with her late partner Bernard Giraudeau, who passed away in 2010, serves as a family sanctuary where they gather joyfully each summer.
At 77 years old, Duperey shows no signs of slowing down. She is currently starring in the play Le Duplex, which has garnered acclaim, and she is eagerly anticipating a provincial tour set to begin in September 2025. "I’m lucky," she said, expressing gratitude for her continued success in a field where many of her contemporaries struggle to find work.
For Duperey, acting is not just a profession; it is a vital outlet. "Being on stage is an incredible expenditure of energy and libido," she stated. "It’s an act of love!" Her new book is filled with anecdotes, including a memorable exchange with filmmaker Agnès Varda, who once told her, "It’s amazing! This way, you have time to find your bearings," when Duperey lamented her single status at over 60.
Reflecting on her past, Duperey recalls a time of great freedom in the 1970s, a period she describes as one of sexual liberation. "I actively campaigned during those years," she joked, reminiscing about her many lovers. She candidly admits that her upbringing influenced her views on relationships. After losing her parents to carbon monoxide poisoning when she was only eight, she was raised by her grandmother and aunt, both strong women who instilled in her the importance of independence. "I learned to live without men and to carve my own path," she noted.
Duperey’s relationship with motherhood is complex. Initially, she was terrified at the thought of having children, fearing it would bring her closer to the pain of loss she experienced as a child. "I was terrified of reconnecting with the danger of disappearing," she explained. However, a pivotal conversation with Giraudeau changed her perspective. He once told her, "The refusal of a child, to that extent, is a form of suicide," a statement that struck a chord with her. Six months later, she was pregnant with her first child, Gaël, followed by her daughter, Sara.
In her book, Duperey discusses her journey into motherhood, acknowledging the challenges of parenting without having known her own mother. Yet, she embraces her role, drawing inspiration from her own upbringing. "I observed my children, I loved them, and I gave them all the tools they needed to fly on their own," she recalled, a sentiment she extends to her grandchildren.
Despite the demands of motherhood, Duperey never put her career on hold. She continued to perform and tour while raising her children, and their paths have echoed her passion for the arts. Recently, her two eldest granddaughters attended one of her theater performances, a moment she cherished.
As she contemplates aging, Duperey admits she once wished to end her life before physical decline set in. However, the death of Giraudeau changed her outlook. "During his funeral, I realized, 'Darn, I can’t do that to our children!'" she reflected. The presence of her grandchildren now serves as a powerful motivator for her to continue living fully and creatively.
Looking ahead, Duperey is excited about her upcoming café-théâtre show, Viens poupoule !, which promises to be a vibrant celebration of life, complete with glitz and glamour. "With fishnets, sequins, everything to have fun!" she enthusiastically described, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.
Duperey’s journey, from a young girl grappling with loss to a celebrated actress and author, is a testament to resilience and the power of self-discovery. Her new book, Respire, c’est de l’iode !, is not merely a collection of memories but a reflection of a life lived passionately, with all its complexities and joys.
This article was featured in Gala No. 1661, available on April 10, 2025. For the latest updates, readers can join the WhatsApp feed of Gala. The new issue of Gala hit the stands on April 17, 2025.
