Isabelle Nanty

Born on 21 January 1962 in Verdun, Meuse, Isabelle Nanty grew up in a modest family in the Lorraine region of France. From an early age she showed a keen interest in the performing arts, which led her to enroll at the prestigious Cours Florent in Paris, where she would later return as a teacher for several years. Her time teaching allowed her to hone her craft and mentor a new generation of actors, while simultaneously developing her own stage presence. Nanty made her screen debut in the early 1980s and quickly gained recognition for her versatility, moving fluidly between comedy, drama, and far‑cical roles. In 1990 she earned a César nomination for Most Promising Actress for her performance in Tatie Danielle, a darkly comic film that showcased her ability to blend empathy with mischief. Subsequent César nominations followed for Best Supporting Actress for Amélie (2001) and Not on the Lips (2003), confirming her status as a respected supporting talent in contemporary French cinema. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s she built an impressive résumé, appearing in Claude Lelouch's La Belle Histoire (1992), the cult classic Les Visiteurs (1993), and the blockbuster Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra (2002). Her later career was marked by leading roles in the Les Tuche franchise (starting in 2011) and the Serial Teachers series (2013, 2015), where her comic timing and infectious energy made her a household name. In addition to acting, Nanty expanded into directing and screenwriting, taking the helm of several theatre productions and bringing a distinctive, collaborative spirit to the stage. In her personal life, she adopted a daughter, Tallulah, from China in 2004, reflecting her compassionate nature beyond the screen. While she keeps her romantic relationships private, her dedication to family, art, and mentorship continues to inspire both audiences and fellow artists alike.