Richard Anconina

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Richard Anconina, a shining star of French cinema still bright despite the years

Richard Anconina, born on January 28, 1953 in the 18th arrondissement of Paris, is a figure you definitely know if you love French cinema. Over 70 years old, he has an impressive career with iconic roles that remain engraved in our memories.

You know, what has always struck me about him is this ability to reinvent himself, to stay alive on screen. His modest height hides an incredible presence, almost magnetic. No wonder his name is associated with classics, and above all, a fortune that testifies to his lasting success.

Well, before becoming a star, this young man of Sephardic Jewish origin from Morocco, with Spanish roots, did not walk on red carpets. His path is rougher, more human, and frankly captivating. He started with odd jobs, you see? Quite far from the spotlight…

But sometimes life holds wonderful surprises, and for him, it showed up very quickly in cinema. His beginnings in the 70s did not predict such a dazzling destiny, but his roles in “Tchao Pantin” or “La Vérité si je mens !” made him a popular icon.

Who really is Richard Anconina: his youth and French roots

So, to give you some context, Richard Joseph Maurice Anconina was born into a humble family: his parents ran a restaurant. It’s a detail that may seem trivial, but I think it says a lot about his authenticity and his attachment to simple values.

After obtaining a CAP in electrotechnics, this young man did not immediately start acting. He switched hats, chaining odd jobs as a hospital orderly or delivery driver, you get a character who tried everything before flourishing in his true profession.

I admit it’s crazy when you think back on it all: Anconina used to tell stories in retirement homes to gain confidence. That’s when he realized he wanted to go on stage, that theater and cinema would be his future. A real revelation!

What I also like is that he never denied his quite marked Moroccan Sephardic Jewish origins, a cultural heritage he carries with pride even in the heart of Paris, his birthplace where everything began.

A rich career: hesitant beginnings to acclaim

His first appearance was in 1977 in a somewhat light film, “Comment se faire réformer”. Nothing extraordinary at first glance, but there is already a spark visible. Then in 1983, boom, “Tchao Pantin” opens the door to the big leagues. This role of Bensoussan earned him two Césars: best male hope and best supporting role. Not bad, right?

This guy did not rest on his laurels. In 1989, his César nomination for “Itinéraire d’un enfant gâté”, directed by Claude Lelouch, marks a new stage. And then, obviously, “La Vérité si je mens !” from 1997 catches the big wave again, with the role of Eddie Vuibert at stake, a comedy that was a hit with several sequels afterwards.

In between, he collaborated with names like Catherine Deneuve or Christophe Lambert, a memorable duo that we don’t forget. Today, his fortune reflects this diverse career, full of ups and some downs, as often in this profession.

It’s also instructive to see that Richard never abandoned theater. You could recently find him again on stage in the play “Coupable”, touring all over France in 2021 and 2022. Even at his age, he remains active, committed, and obviously happy to share his passion.

Private life and surprising anecdotes about Richard Anconina

On a personal note, he has managed to keep some discretion, even if we know a few tidbits: married, father, he leads a fairly peaceful life away from scandals. That said, one anecdote I like to mention is the day when Coluche allegedly slapped him violently on a set. It feels like a movie, but it’s reality, real life, not always smooth for these stars.

He also has that little something close and warm that comes out in his interviews where he sometimes talks about his age and his reflections on the profession. He’s not the type to turn a blind eye, and you feel it in his roles full of humanity.

In 2010, he even received the distinction of commander in the Order of Arts and Letters, a nice recognition, isn’t it? No surprise when you know his journey, his modest stature never slowed down his greatness of soul nor his ambitions on the big screen.

Finally, regarding recent projects, Richard continues to multiply experiences, notably with memorable collaborations in films and TV movies. His latest notable return to cinema is with “Camping 2”, a popular success filmed in the Arcachon region, also broadcast on TF1 television.

Key moments that marked the career of Richard Anconina

  • 🎬 His beginnings in “Comment se faire réformer” where he cut his teeth
  • 🏆 Double César for “Tchao Pantin”, which propelled him to the summit
  • 🎭 Collaboration with Claude Lelouch in “Itinéraire d’un enfant gâté”
  • 😄 Popular success with “La Vérité si je mens !” and its sequels
  • 🎟️ Artistic recognition with the title of commander in the Order of Arts and Letters

Find more information and Richard Anconina’s complete filmography

If you want to dive deeper into his rich filmography, nothing beats a quick visit to Allociné. You will see all his roles, from the first somewhat discreet films to French blockbusters.

For a more complete portrait, I also recommend this well-made article on Wikipedia, which details his life and professional journey.

Another source to follow his news, his theater plays and collaborations is Tpa.fr, specialized in live performances where he has been a messenger for a long time.

And if you are curious to know what this actor has become, Voici is your perfect address for the latest news and exclusive interviews.


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