Renowned French vocalist and actor Jean-Paul Vignon has passed away at the age of 89. The versatile star succumbed to liver cancer on March 22 at his residence in Beverly Hills, California, as confirmed by his family and reported by THR.
Details regarding the timeline of Vignon’s diagnosis with liver cancer remain undisclosed, but news of his demise was recently shared with the public. The actor had celebrated his 89th birthday on January 30.
In his youth, Vignon found inspiration in the works of French singer-songwriters such as Charles Trenet and Charles Aznavour, along with American crooner Frank Sinatra.
His career included roles in two French films, “Asphalte” and “Les Promesses Dangereuses.” It was during a performance on Le Liberté en route that he caught the attention of talent scouts and subsequently secured a deal that led him to the United States.
Vignon made his American debut at The Blue Angel, a New York supper club, where he even opened for a young stand-up comic named Woody Allen.
His talent didn’t go unnoticed, as Ed Sullivan’s scouts spotted him and arranged for him to make eight appearances on the Sunday Night CBS variety show. During one memorable segment, he performed a duet with Liza Minnelli.
Additionally, Vignon became a regular guest on The Merv Griffin Show, charming American audiences with his European flair and wit.
His transition to American cinema occurred with his co-starring role alongside William Holden in the 1968 film “The Devil’s Brigade.”
Vignon’s voice became familiar to many through his narration in “500 Days Of Summer,” particularly in the scene where the protagonist, played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt, dreams of a French movie after a breakup. He also lent his voice to one of Robin Hood’s Merry Men in the first “Shrek” movie.
Among his notable acting roles were Andre in “Gilmore Girls” and Monsieur Lazare in “Days of Our Lives.” Jean-Paul Vignon leaves behind a legacy of talent and charisma that will be remembered fondly by audiences around the world.