Micheline Presle, a legendary actress known for her subtle and elegant performances, passed away on Feb. 21 at the age of 101 in Nogent-sur-Marne, a suburb of Paris. She was the last surviving member of a trio of iconic French actresses from the first golden age of French cinema, alongside Danièlle Darrieux and Michèle Morgan.
Ms. Presle’s career was marked by her ability to convey a wide range of human emotions through her facial expressions, particularly in her acclaimed roles in “Le Diable au Corps” (1947) and “Boule de Suif” (1945), both based on French literary masterpieces. Her performance in “Le Diable au Corps,” which depicted a scandalous affair during World War I, was hailed as the major work of her career.
Despite facing challenges and setbacks throughout her career, including a brief stint in Hollywood and personal struggles, Ms. Presle continued to reinvent herself and make a lasting impact on French cinema. Her versatility and talent were recognized by audiences and critics alike, earning her a place among the greats of French cinema.
In a statement after her passing, the French presidency praised Ms. Presle’s ability to “incarnate a thousand faces of humanity” and lauded her contribution to the world of film. She is survived by two grandchildren, as her daughter, the actress and director Tonie Marshall, passed away in 2020.
Ms. Presle’s legacy as a trailblazing actress and a true icon of French cinema will continue to inspire generations to come. Her remarkable career and timeless performances have left an indelible mark on the history of film, solidifying her status as a true legend of the silver screen.
