The Abbesses district displayed a clear blue sky in contrast to the sadness of the event. Nadia Farès was suddenly taken by a grave illness in a pool. She leaves behind the image of a familiar face from both the big and small screen. Her family and friends paraded in the religious building to pay tribute to the one who made an impact in “Les Rivières pourpres” and the series “Marseille”. The contrast was striking between the dark farewell and the magical light of this postcard-like Paris.
“The artists love to be applauded”: a vibrant tribute signed by Claude Lelouch
The most poignant moment of the celebration came from her friend and neighbor Claude Lelouch. The filmmaker had directed her in two films and held a deep admiration for her. He spoke to honor the memory of a woman who could have been his daughter. The director had a bright idea to transform the silence of the nave into a moment of life.
“Nadia Farès was a great artist. And artists love to be applauded,” he declared to a grieving assembly. Claude Lelouch made an appeal to the actress’s loved ones. “I ask you to give a wonderful standing ovation to Nadia,” he said. The audience rose as one, united in grief, to honor her memory. The applause resounded for a long time under the vaults of the Basilica of Montmartre.
“I will spend my life searching for you”: the heartfelt cry of her daughters during a final goodbye
The pain was particularly visible in Cylia and Shana, the actress’s daughters. The two young women spoke in English to express their anguish. Shana described a mother “so profoundly good” while her sister, Cylia, expressed her immense distress. “I will spend the rest of my life searching for you in the trees,” she confessed, devastated, adding that her mother was her “best friend” and everything she had.
Many celebrities were present in the front rows like Laeticia Hallyday, Gad Elmaleh, and Nagui. Guillaume Canet and Josiane Balasko were also spotted. The world of cinema is mourning for the one who attracted attention. As the black sedan drove away, the actress was watched over by her family and friends. Nadia Farès will remain in hearts as a beloved woman and a luminous artist.
