Fans of the legendary French ensemble known as the Splendid troupe are grappling with immense sorrow as two beloved figures have passed away within months of each other. Josiane Balasko, cherished actress and member of this iconic group, announced on March 17, 2025, the death of her close friend, Jacques Delaporte, just five months after the shocking passing of Michel Blanc. Balasko’s heartfelt tribute on social media serves as both a personal reflection and shared sorrow for the community.
Delaporte's passing came as yet another emotional blow to Balasko, who previously dealt with the loss of Blanc, also associated with the Splendid. Blanc, known for his roles in films like Les Bronzés and Marche à l’ombre, died on October 4, 2024, from complications related to anaphylactic shock. His death at the age of 72 sent ripples of grief throughout the entertainment industry, rattling fans and colleagues who admired his contributions to French cinema.
On social media, Balasko shared her anguish, writing, "Dans la série, la vie est merdique en ce moment, notre ami et complice Jacques Delaporte est allé voir ailleurs. Avec toi aussi, nous nous sommes tant marrés." This statement echoed the collective pain of losing another cherished friend and collaborator, embedding the sentiment of shared laughter and camaraderie even during hard times.
Jacques Delaporte was known not only as an actor but also as a talented composer. He contributed to notable films, including Nuit d’ivresse, which he starred in alongside Balasko, and Grosse Fatigue, where he collaborated with Blanc. His musical compositions, characterized by their humor and spirit, like the cult classic La Salsa du Démon, played a significant role within the Splendid’s productions, serving as both energizers of the ensemble and nostalgic reminders of the past.
The legacy left by Blanc and Delaporte transcends their individual talents; it is intertwined with the joyful essence they brought to the Splendid troupe. Their ability to shift from humor to poignance resonates deeply with those who experienced their work. During the tumultuous mourning period following Blanc's death, Balasko and other members expressed their grief online, posting tributes and sharing memories of laughter they shared with Blanc, showcasing how humor persisted as their antidote to heartbreak. Balasko remarked how even during somber occasions, laughter was never far away, stating, "Il aurait aimé ça," as she recalled the shared camaraderie during their tough times.
Their deaths have not only left voids personally but have also highlighted the community's fragility. Within just months, the Splendid has lost key figures who painted its narrative with joy and resilience, connecting generations of audiences through their humor. Fans have united to express their sorrow and gratitude on social media, emphasizing how these artists managed to bring light even amid sorrow, as many retorted with comments like, "Tant de souvenirs" and “Il nous a fait rire.”
But through grief, Balasko and her peers refuse to let the joy shared over the years fade too easily. Plans for retrospectives to celebrate the lives and works of their departed friends are surfacing, and there’s clear determination to keep the spirit of Delaporte's music and Blanc's performances alive through communal gatherings and remembrances.
Reflecting on the legacy left behind, Balasko noted how the influence of these giants remains indelible within the fabric of French culture and film. "C'était quelqu'un de tout à fait rare. Il était inspirant," said Jean-Michel Ribes, who shared his thoughts on Blanc's unmatched contribution to film and comedy, reiteration of the sentiments felt by many who were touched by their shared experiences within the industry. While the pain of loss is palpable, what remains are stories, laughter, and art—indispensable elements of their legacy.
Moving forward, questions linger about how the Splendid troupe will continue and whether they can navigate through this sadness without losing their essence. Nevertheless, Josiane Balasko and her fellow actors express conviction: “On se raconte encore des conneries,” they assure one another, indicating the strength of their bond and the humorous spirit they intend to uphold.
Loss is never easy; it tests the bonds of friendship and community. Yet as audiences and fellow artists reflect on Michel Blanc and Jacques Delaporte, it is clear—while life can be mirthless at times, through the laughter they've shared, their spirits will endure forever, bridging generations with the joy they cultivated together.
