April 3rd 2024.
It is with great sadness that the family of Jean-Paul Vignon announces his passing. The beloved French vocalist and actor passed away at the age of 89 on March 22 in Beverly Hills, after a battle with liver cancer. Vignon's career spanned an impressive eight decades, starting in his home country of France before making his way to New York and eventually entertaining audiences on both sides of the Atlantic.
In 1963, Vignon had the opportunity to open for the legendary stand-up comedian Woody Allen in New York. This was just the beginning of his successful career in the States. He lent his voice to the character of one of the Merry Men in the hit animated film Shrek, and also narrated the charming 2009 romantic comedy 500 Days of Summer, starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel. Vignon's smooth and soothing voice can be heard in a pivotal scene where Gordon-Levitt's character goes to the cinema alone and dreams of a black and white French film, narrated by Vignon.
Aside from his voice acting roles, Vignon also made appearances on popular television shows such as Gilmore Girls and Days of Our Lives. He even had a supporting role in the World War II film The Devil's Brigade and hosted the Canadian show The Sensuous Man. However, Vignon's talents were not limited to acting. He was also a successful singer, having been signed with Columbia Records. In 1964, he released his first U.S. album, entitled Because I Love You.
Born and raised in Avignon, France, Vignon's talent and charm quickly caught the attention of American audiences. He appeared on several variety shows on CBS, where he even had the opportunity to perform a duet with the young Liza Minnelli. His early career in France included performances at a cabaret in Paris and roles in French films such as Les Promesses Dangereuses and Asphalte.
In addition to his appearances on CBS, Vignon was a regular on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson and Marv Griffin's daytime show. His smooth voice and natural charisma made him a fan favorite. In a 1994 profile in the Los Angeles Times, Vignon was described as the quintessential romantic Frenchman, with a voice reminiscent of Bobby Darin.
Vignon is survived by his longtime partner Suzie Summers, his daughter Marguerite Vignon Gaul and granddaughters Leah and Hannah from his marriage to the late actress Brigid Bazlen, and his daughter Lucy Brank. He leaves behind a legacy of talent and charm that will be greatly missed.
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Rest in peace, Jean-Paul Vignon. Your talent and charm will never be forgotten. In the words of your iconic Shrek character, "Ogres are like onions...they have layers." You were a true gem with many layers, and we are grateful for the joy you brought to our screens.
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