Philippe Hersent (23 February 1912 – 30 March 1982) was a French film and television actor. Born in Paris, France, Hersent pursued a career in acting that encompassed more than five decades, appearing in a wide range of cinematic and televised productions.
Career Overview
Hersent began his film work in the early 1930s, initially taking minor roles before attaining more substantial parts during the post‑World War II era. He frequently portrayed supporting characters, often cast as authority figures such as policemen, military officers, or professionals. His résumé includes appearances in notable French films such as Le Boucher (1970) directed by Claude Chabrol, Les Misérables (1958) directed by Jean-Paul Le Chanois, and Le Couteau dans la peau (1961) directed by Jean-Charles Dudrumet.
In addition to his film work, Hersent was active in French television during the 1960s and 1970s, featuring in series such as Les Cinq Dernières Minutes and the historical drama Les Rois maudits (1972).
Selected Filmography
- Le Boucher (1970) – role: Le médecin
- Les Misérables (1958) – role: L’inspecteur Javert (uncredited)
- Le Voleur de Bâtons (1966) – role: Le commandant de police
- Les Misérables (1964 TV miniseries) – role: Marquis de Lantenac
- Peau d'Âne (1970 TV movie) – role: Le roi
Personal Life and Death
Details about Hersent’s personal life, including education and family, are sparsely documented in publicly available sources. He died on 30 March 1982 in Paris at the age of 70.
Legacy
Although not a leading star, Philippe Hersent is remembered among French cinema scholars and enthusiasts for his reliable character performances, contributing to the texture of mid‑20th‑century French film and television productions.
