Renowned French singer, actress, and fashion icon Françoise Hardy has passed away at the age of 80.
Hardy, known for her soul-stirring ballads, released over 30 albums during her illustrious career and achieved a UK hit with All Around the World in 1964.
Born in Nazi-occupied Paris in 1944, Hardy grew up in the city and received her first guitar at the age of 16. She started composing her own songs and quickly rose to prominence as one of the most recognizable faces of the 1960s.
She also ventured into modeling for renowned brands like Yves Saint Laurent and showcased her acting skills in films such as the 1966 drama Grand Prix.
Legendary musician Mick Jagger once described her as his “ideal woman.”
In 1995, Hardy collaborated on a French version of Blur’s To The End, which served as the B-side to the chart-topping hit Country House.
Hardy’s personal life intertwined with her professional success as she began a relationship with fellow French singer Jacques Dutronc in 1967, and they welcomed a son named Thomas six years later.
Despite facing challenges in their relationship, the couple tied the knot in 1981 for financial reasons. They separated in 1988 but never officially divorced.
Diagnosed with lymphatic cancer in 2004 and later with laryngeal cancer in 2012, Hardy’s health battles did not deter her creative spirit. She released her final album in 2018 before her illness prevented her from continuing to perform in 2021.
Thomas, her son and a musician, confirmed her passing by stating, “Maman est partie,” translating to “Mom has left us.”
