Jacqueline Bisset’s remarkable career spans over five decades, with 58 films to her credit. She was admired by my parents during my childhood and has since become an enduring inspiration in my life. Bisset holds a special place in the hearts of audiences and is a living tribute to the golden age of Hollywood.
Her allure is timeless, characterized by an effortless presence and a natural beauty that eschews heavy makeup. With her striking green eyes and high cheekbones, Bisset has played a variety of memorable roles, from the classic love story of Anna Karenina to the sultry Miss Goodthighs in Casino Royale (1967), and later, the dignified portrayal of Jackie Kennedy Onassis in America’s Prince: The John F. Kennedy Jr. Story (2003).
Bisset made her film debut in 1966 with Roman Polanski’s Cul-de-Sac. The following year, she gained widespread recognition for her roles in three notable films, including The Sweet Ride, which earned her a Golden Globe nomination.
Fluent in English, French and Italian, she was honored with the prestigious French Legion of Honor in 2010 and received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2023 Sedona International Film Festival.
Despite working alongside some of Hollywood’s most famous men, Bisset remained single. While rumors of romantic relationships with Frank Sinatra and Steve McQueen circulated, she dismissed them, citing fundamental differences. A confident and independent woman, Bisset had long-term relationships but never committed to a single relationship.
In an interview with The Independent, she said she was attracted to complex individuals, but acknowledged that such connections could sometimes bring out undesirable traits. While avoiding toxic relationships, Bisset has faced her own personal challenges and learned to adjust her mindset to avoid being burdened by unreasonable expectations.
Bisset received critical acclaim for her Golden Globe-winning role as Baroness Cremona in the BBC series Dancing on the Edge. She is also Angelina Jolie’s godmother and, at the age of 69, won the Most Promising Actress Award. Her most recent role in the French thriller The Oddger (2020) showcased her diversity and ability to take on a variety of roles.
Far from her public image, Bisset’s character in The Oddger, Rose, was a stark contrast to her own personality. Director Russell Brown praised her for her exceptional talent and noted her remarkable ease in transitioning between different characters.
Embracing the aging process with grace, Bisset spoke at the Golden Globe Awards about the importance of forgiveness in maintaining beauty. She has long rejected the notion of plastic surgery, saying it doesn’t make you younger, but rather unique.
A consummate artist and truly generous soul, Jacqueline Bisset remains a role model in the entertainment industry. Her intelligence, poise and timeless elegance have cemented her place among my all-time favorite actresses.