Danielle Proulx

Danielle Proulx is a celebrated French‑Canadian actress whose career spans more than five decades, beginning in the vibrant theatre scenes of the 1970s before she transitioned to film and television. Born on October 12, 1952 in Montreal, Quebec, she quickly became a fixture of Quebec’s cultural landscape, noted for her striking ability to embody both comedic and dramatic roles with equal depth. Her breakout performances earned her critical acclaim, most notably a Genie Award for Best Supporting Actress for Love Crazy (Amoureux fou) in 1991, a film that cemented her reputation as a compelling character actress. The accolade was repeated in 2005 when she won the same award for her nuanced portrayal in the cult classic C.R.A.Z.Y., showcasing her versatility and continued relevance in contemporary Canadian cinema. Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Proulx appeared in a diverse array of projects, ranging from independent dramas to mainstream television series, each time bringing a distinctive blend of warmth, intensity, and authenticity that resonated with audiences across the Francophone world. Her body of work reflects a dedication to storytelling that highlights both personal and societal narratives, earning her a place among Canada’s most respected performers. In recent years, Proulx has continued to evolve, taking on the regular role of Grand‑Mère in the 2019 revival of the beloved children’s series Passe‑Partout, a role that introduced her to a new generation of viewers and reaffirmed her status as a versatile talent. Outside of her professional life, she married filmmaker Raymond Cloutier in 1973, a partnership that lasted until 1987, and together they raised a son, Émile Proulx‑Cloutier, who has followed in his mother’s artistic footsteps as an actor and musician. Her extended family also includes niece Catherine Proulx‑Lemay, underscoring a strong creative lineage. Danielle Proulx remains an influential figure whose contributions continue to shape Canadian film and television, reflecting both her artistic excellence and her deep connection to Quebec’s cultural heritage.