Performing the play A Straw Hat in Italy at the Porte Saint-Martin theater, Vincent Dedienne was the guest of RTL on Sunday. The actor, who discovered his vocation in front of Muriel Robin’s sketches, spoke of the debate sparked by the comedian’s comments on the place given to LGBT actors in cinema. “I am the only actress in the world to say (her) homosexuality,” said the 68-year-old actress on the set of Quelle Époque! the previous weekend.
For Muriel Robin, her assumed homosexuality prevented her from being offered roles in the cinema, even though she was enjoying success with her shows. “I know French homosexual actors, they keep quiet,” because there are no outspoken gay or lesbian performers “who have a great career,” she said. An observation accompanied by advice for young gay actors: “We must tell them that there is no point in doing this job. They will not work.
Vincent Dedienne, a comedian who has already spoken publicly about his homosexuality, initially welcomed the coming out of his elder sister. “I found Muriel great,” he explained. I found what she said amazing.” “I too know homosexual actors who don’t say it,” he added before qualifying. Not because they want a career in cinema, but because their parents don’t know about it, for example. It’s complicated to make generalizations.”
Referring to his own case, Vincent Dedienne considers himself lucky. “I’m practically only offered straight roles in the cinema,” he emphasizes. Current times are, according to him, easier for homosexual artists. “When Muriel started her acting career (…) we weren’t where we are today on queer issues (…). Today, things are fine. I don’t feel confronted with homophobia in cinema. Instead, I have to chase gay roles. I played one in L’Étreinte.” In conclusion, Vincent Dedienne advocates “transparency”, believing that “when we tell the truth, we feel better, and therefore we play better and are a better actor.”