Jean Reno: French Actor of Spanish and Moroccan Descent

Early Life and Career

Birth and Family Background

* Born Juan Moreno y Herrera-Jiménez on July 30, 1948, in Casablanca, Morocco. * Parents were Spanish nationals from Andalusia.

Early Acting Roles

* Began acting under the name Jean Reno in the 1970s. * Appeared in French and international films, often in supporting roles.

Breakthrough and Recognition

The Big Blue (1988)

* Reno's breakthrough role as Enzo Molinari, a scuba diving instructor. * Earned international acclaim and established him as a leading actor.

Nikita (1990)

* Portrayed Victor "The Cleaner," a government assassin. * Collaborated with director Luc Besson on multiple films.

Leon: The Professional (1994)

* Played Leon, a professional hitman who befriends a 12-year-old girl. * Received widespread critical praise and became a cult classic.

International Success

Hollywood Films

* Appeared in numerous American films, including Mission: Impossible, The Da Vinci Code, and The Pink Panther.

French Cinema

* Continued to work in French films, balancing commercial blockbusters with independent productions.

Personal Life and Legacy

Marriage and Family

* Married actress Sophie Marceau from 2006 to 2012. * Has six children from three relationships.

Recognition and Awards

* Won the César Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role for Les Visiteurs (1993). * Has been nominated for numerous other awards, including a Golden Globe and an Oscar.

Legacy

* Jean Reno is widely regarded as one of the most successful French actors of all time. * His performances have left an indelible mark on both French and international cinema.