Crystal Facts About Capucine, The Falling Star
Capucine was the French model-turned-actress who had one of Hollywood’s most powerful producers eating out of the palm of her hand.
Her unparalleled beauty got her money, clothes, men, and fame—but it couldn’t get her the one thing she really wanted. Discover the sad history behind the comeliest woman to ever grace the silver screen.
1. She Had Humble Beginnings
Capucine was born Germaine Lefebvre in January 1928, in the south of France. Born into a wealthy family, little Germaine wanted for nothing, but that didn't stop her from dreaming. The sleepy town of Saint-Raphael was too small for her. Growing up, she dreamed of an escape—and it wasn't long before she found it.
2. She Had Big Dreams
From an early age, Capucine pined for a life bigger than the one she had. In her tiny town in the south of France, she grew up watching her favorite film stars such as Greta Garbo, Ingrid Bergman, and Katherine Hepburn. More than anything she wanted to be just like those glamorous stars she saw on the big screen in her little eyes.
But even for little rich girls, a life of stardom is no easy target.
3. She Set Her Sights On Hollywood
Capucine later recalled, “I had wanted to be a motion picture actress ever since I was a child in Toulon.” She knew that there was no hope of ever becoming a star if she stayed in rural France. But there was one big problem: Her domineering parents seemed determined to make sure that she never reached her full star potential—well, that is, if she even had any...
4. Her Parents Were Strict
Capucine’s parents were, by her own admission, “bourgeois.” To say that they had antiquated ideas about what their daughter could and couldn’t do would be putting it kindly. They strongly suggested that Capucine become a school teacher or work in a bank “adding figures all day long.” Respectful work for a young woman, in their view. Far better than something as base as acting. Capucine had no choice but to rebel.
