Simone Signoret

Profession: Actress

Nationality:

Biography: Simone Signoret was a French actress best known for her performances in films such as "Room at the Top" (1958), "Ship of Fools" (1965) and "Bob Hope Presents the Chrysler Theatre" (1966). Over her career she received an Academy Award, three BAFTA Awards, a César Award, and the Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Actress.

Signoret was born in Germany to a French father and a Polish-Jewish mother. During the Nazi occupation of France, she worked as a typist for a collaborationist newspaper to support her family. She eventually began acting in small parts in 1942.

Signoret first gained attention for her roles in the films "La Ronde" (1950) and "Casque d'or" (1951). She won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance in the British film "Room at the Top" (1959). She continued to work in France, England, and Hollywood, appearing in films like "Ship of Fools" (1965).

Signoret was married to filmmaker Yves Allégret from 1944 to 1949, with whom she had a daughter. She later married actor Yves Montand in 1951, which lasted until her death. She would eventually write a memoir, "Nostalgia Isn't What It Used to Be" (1978), and a novel, "Adieu Volodya" (1985).

Signoret died of pancreatic cancer in 1985 at the age of 64. She was buried in Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris. The play "Marilyn" (2011) depicted her relationship with Marilyn Monroe during the filming of "Let's Make Love." Singer Nina Simone took her last name from Simone Signoret.

Born: March 25, 1921
Birthplace: Wiesbaden, Germany

Generation: Greatest Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Rooster
Star Sign: Aries

Died: September 30, 1985 (aged 64)
Cause of Death: Pancreatic cancer