Audrey Fleurot, the acclaimed French actress known for her roles in popular series like HPI and film Intouchables, recently shared heartbreaking news during her appearance on the French television show Quelle Époque!. On December 21, 2024, Fleurot disclosed her father's passing, paying tribute to his influence on her life and career.
Fleurot, 47, appeared visibly emotional as she spoke with host Léa Salamé about her father, who sadly passed away just prior to the broadcast. "I just lost my father, so I think he would appreciate me sharing this story," Fleurot stated, reflecting on her childhood and the pivotal role her father played in her pursuit of acting.
Her admiration for her father's impact on her ambitions stemmed from her upbringing. Fleurot revealed, "At the age of eight, I knew exactly what I wanted to do. I would set everything up to go there. I really wanted to do theater, I didn’t fantasize about cinema at all." This deep-rooted passion for the arts was nurtured by her father, who worked as a firefighting officer assigned to the Comédie-Française, one of France's most prestigious theaters.
During the show, Fleurot recounted how her father often took her to the theater when he was on duty. "He was regularly on guard at the Comédie-Française, and one evening my mother said, 'Take the little girl.' I was on the edge of the seats, witnessing the performance and the behind-the-scenes chaos. It was such an epiphany for me! I realized, 'This is what I want to do.' But I had no real culture of theater at the time," she explained passionately.
Fleurot's acknowledgment of her father's role and her heartfelt tribute to him unfolded naturally during the conversation. The host, Léa Salamé, did not initially realize the sensitivity of the topic when she connected Fleurot's interest in the theater back to her father. "You wanted to do theater because of your father, right?" Salamé prompted, to which Fleurot replied with laughter yet touched with sadness, "Yes, I’ve often repeated this story, but it is true!"
This personal moment underscored not only Fleurot's talent but also the deep familial bonds and shared passions often present among artists. She affirmed the significance of her father's early encouragement and influence, stating, "I was fortunate to have this, as it was everything or nothing for me, and I truly believe it was a fortune."
Fleurot is currently starring as Morgane, the brilliant detective with high intelligence, on the hit series HPI, which has captured substantial viewership and acclaim. Despite the show's growing success, the actress has expressed her desire to step away from the character after the upcoming fifth season. Her co-star, Mehdi Nebbou, echoed her sentiments, saying they both want to conclude the series with style, rather than prolong it unnecessarily.
Addressing these career changes, Fleurot remarked, "It would be classy to finish with flair rather than let it drag on and lose its originality. Internet users closely follow my evolution, noticing differences and speculating. Yet, I stay comfortable with my choices," referring to online comments about her appearance, including questions about alterations due to cosmetic surgery.
During the emotional interview, when recalling her father's influence, she illustrated the deep connection they shared, describing how each role she took, every success she achieved, brought her memories of him. Fleurot's loss is felt even more deeply as she contemplates her career’s next chapter without him.
The segment touched viewers deeply and sparked conversations about the struggles and joys of pursuing dreams and the importance of family support. Léa Salamé, feeling the weight of the news, apologized to Fleurot, acknowledging the unexpected emotional turn of the interview. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to bring this up,” Salamé said, reflecting the empathy felt within the studio.
The heartfelt tribute has both captivated audiences and offered insight on how influential familial relationships can shape one’s career—especially for those who courageously navigate the path of the performing arts.
This moment on Quelle Époque! exemplifies not only the challenges faced by those in the limelight but also how personal loss can resonate with public figures, reminding viewers of their humanity. Fleurot's story highlights the intersection of loss and the arts, reminding fans of the personal journeys behind the characters they grow to adore.
