Yves Montand

Yves Montand, born as Ivo Livi (13 October 1921 – 9 November 1991), was an Italian-born French actor and singer. He is renowned as one of France's greatest 20th-century artists. Montand was born in Monsummano Terme, Italy, and moved to France in 1923 following Benito Mussolini's rise to power. He achieved international recognition as a singer and actor, known for his crooner style songs about Paris. Montand acted in American motion pictures and on Broadway, earning nominations for César Award for Best Actor in 1980 and 1984. In his later life, he gave one of his best-remembered performances in Jean de Florette and Manon des Sources in 1986, which revived his profile in the United States and earned him an appearance on Late Night with David Letterman.

Montand was married to Simone Signoret in 1951, a union which lasted until her death in 1985, although he had well-publicised affairs. He had a son named Valentin with his second wife, Carole Amiel. In addition to his acting career, Montand supported left-wing causes during the 1950s and 1960s, attending Communist festivals and meetings. He passed away from a heart attack in November 1991.