“Humor is cultivating joy”

What is this new series, signed Jean-Xavier de Lestrade, about?

About how we stand up after trauma, and how the collective repairs. We see how seven of the eleven Bataclan hostages formed unbreakable bonds with each other, which endure.

Before being a character, Marie is a real person. Is it difficult to slip into such a role?

To interpret is always to be on a crest line. This time I had to forget the real Marie, otherwise I wasn’t free to play. While often telling myself that this required me to be even more sincere.

The place that inspires you to rehearse your text?

None. In the theater, we are taught that we must be able to recite it while doing the dishes, shopping, jogging…

Your hidden talent?

The singing! I would like to sing more on screen, like in Living peoplebut it is rare that we are asked. I listen to a lot of songs feeling the same thrills of emotion with The old lovers by Brel than with The desire to love of the Ten Commandments.

Your Proust madeleine?

The incomparable stuffed tomatoes from my grandmother, Margot.

Your latest cultural favorite?

One battle after anotherthe latest, very surprising film by Paul Thomas Anderson.

The cause that motivates you?

Childhood abuse. As such, since 2015, I have been one of the sponsors of the L’Enfant Bleu association.

Pope Leo grants you an audience. What question is burning on your lips?

I would like to dialogue with him to understand why the Church is still struggling to tackle the subject of sexual violence, to take the necessary measures to fight against it, and to fully recognize all victims.

The person you have the most affection for?

In my family, love did not manifest itself that way. I learned to grow my tenderness with my son, who is now 11 years old.

What quality are you proud to pass on to him?

Humor, because it cultivates joy. It is like a small step aside from the world, which makes you able to see it differently. I’m delighted, because he already has a lot, as well as some repartee.