In a poignant moment on March 31, 2025, Flavie Flament announced the death of renowned French director Yves Boisset during a live broadcast of Télématin, leaving actress Elsa Zylberstein visibly shaken. As she prepared to discuss her latest film, Natacha (presque) hôtesse de l'air, which is set to hit theaters on April 2, Zylberstein was caught off guard by the news of Boisset's passing at the age of 86.
Flavie Flament, hosting the morning show on France 2, posed a question to Zylberstein regarding her reaction to the shocking news. “A reaction to the information that just came in, the death of Yves Boisset?” Flament asked. Zylberstein, clearly taken aback, responded, “No, I didn’t know. I just learned it.” This revelation marked a somber turn in the interview, as the actress reflected on her past collaborations with the influential filmmaker.
Flament continued to provide details about Boisset’s life and career, stating, “You’re learning about it since we just announced it on Télématin.” Zylberstein, visibly emotional, replied, “I’m confused. You just told me this on the set. Yves Boisset has just left us; he was 86 years old.” The actress struggled to compose herself, stating, “It’s hard to process this news.”
Yves Boisset, a stalwart of French cinema, was known for his politically charged films, including L'Attentat, which tackled the assassination of Moroccan dissident Mehdi Ben Barka, and the thriller Le Prix du danger. His most famous work, Dupont Lajoie, released in 1975, was inspired by real-life racist murders in Marseille. Boisset’s films often confronted societal issues, making him a significant figure in French cinema.
As the conversation shifted back to Zylberstein’s work, she expressed her admiration for Boisset, saying, “He was an incredible man, and I was honored to work with him.” The actress starred in Boisset's 2002 television film Jean Moulin, which depicted the final years of the prominent French Resistance leader.
The news of Boisset’s death was confirmed by his family to the Agence France-Presse (AFP), stating that he had been receiving treatment at the Franco-British Hospital in Levallois-Perret for several days prior to his passing. The announcement of his death not only shocked Zylberstein but also resonated deeply within the French film community, which mourns the loss of a director who dared to tackle difficult subjects.
In her interview, Zylberstein, who was visibly emotional, managed to share a few more words in tribute to Boisset, saying, “He was a remarkable man. I was truly honored to have worked with him.” Flament, recognizing Zylberstein’s emotional state, suggested they could discuss her film later, but the impact of the news lingered in the air.
Boisset’s contributions to cinema extend beyond his feature films; he shifted towards television in the 1990s, where he felt he could explore themes that mainstream cinema often avoided. “If you address a truly disturbing subject, you’ll never find funding for it,” he once said in a documentary about his career. This sentiment reflects his commitment to tackling the complexities of French society through his art.
His television works, including L'Affaire Dreyfus and L'Affaire Seznec, earned critical acclaim and showcased his ability to engage with historical narratives. Boisset’s work often sparked controversy and debate, reflecting the tumultuous political landscape of France during his career.
Elsa Zylberstein's appearance on Télématin was not only a promotional opportunity for her new film but also a moment of reflection on the legacy of a filmmaker who shaped her career. As she discussed her latest project, co-starring with Camille Lou and Vincent Dedienne, the shadow of Boisset's passing loomed large.
In the days leading up to his death, Boisset was celebrated for his contributions to cinema, with many fans and colleagues expressing their admiration for his work. His films have left an indelible mark on French culture, and his passing signifies the end of an era for many in the industry.
As Zylberstein moved on to speak about Natacha (presque) hôtesse de l'air, the actress’s heart remained heavy with the loss of her mentor and collaborator. The film, set to premiere soon, offers a glimpse into her ongoing career, but the impact of Boisset’s death will undoubtedly resonate with her and many others in the film community.
In the wake of this tragic news, tributes to Yves Boisset have poured in from various sectors of the film industry, highlighting his role as a pioneer who addressed pressing social issues through his storytelling. His films continue to inspire new generations of filmmakers and audiences alike.
As the day progressed, the news of Boisset’s death served as a reminder of the fragility of life and the profound impact that art can have in shaping society. For Zylberstein and others who knew him, the loss is not just personal; it is a loss felt across the fabric of French cinema.
In a world where the voices of artists can often be silenced, Yves Boisset’s legacy will serve as a beacon for those who dare to speak truth to power through their craft. His films will continue to challenge and inspire, leaving a lasting imprint on the world of cinema.
