Jacqueline Jeanne Paule Maillan was a renowned French actress with a remarkable career spanning nearly five decades, leaving an indelible mark on the world of theatre and cinema. She was celebrated for her outstanding performances in approximately forty theatre productions, as well as her appearances in more than fifty films, from 1947 to 1992.
Maillan was particularly recognized for her exceptional talent in playing bold, powerful, and exuberant characters, both on stage and screen. Her iconic roles in vaudeville and boulevard theatre, as well as her appearances in films like Jean-Marie Poiré's cult classic Gramps Is in the Resistance (French: Papy fait de la résistance, 1983),solidified her reputation as one of the greatest comedic thespians of her generation.
Nicknamed "The Louis de Funès in skirt", Maillan was a true pioneer in the field of stand-up comedy in France. Her trailblazing efforts paved the way for future generations of comedians.
Maillan's personal life was marked by a unique arrangement with her husband, Michel Emer, who was also Edith Piaf's composer. As a 'free couple', they lived openly despite the deep social stigma surrounding bisexuality and homosexuality during the 1950s and 1960s. Emer's unwavering support allowed Maillan to maintain her anonymity, a testament to the enduring power of love and acceptance.
Throughout her illustrious career, Maillan received numerous accolades, including the prestigious title of Chevalier (French: Knight) of the Légion d'honneur and Officer of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres. Her remarkable legacy continues to inspire and entertain audiences to this day.
