Simon Abkarian

1.1. Early Life and Education

Simon Abkarian was born on 5 March 1962, in Gonesse, Val-d'Oise, France, to parents of Armenian descent. He spent his early childhood in France until the age of nine, after which he moved with his parents to Lebanon, where he resided for six years. Following his time in Lebanon, Abkarian moved to the United States, initially studying dance and aid in New York City. He later relocated to Los Angeles, where he began his stage career by joining an Armenian theater company managed by Gerald Papazian. In 1985, he returned to France and settled in Paris, where he continued his acting education at the Acting International school.

1.2. Theater Career

Abkarian's theater career began with his joining Ariane Mnouchkine's renowned Théâtre du Soleil. During his time there, he performed in several notable productions, including L'Histoire terrible mais inachevée de Norodom Sihanouk, roi du Cambodge (The Terrible but Unfinished Story of Norodom Sihanouk, King of Cambodia) by Hélène Cixous, and the four-play cycle House of Atreus by Aeschylus. He remained with the Théâtre du Soleil until 1993.

In 2001, Abkarian achieved significant critical acclaim for his starring role in Beast on the Moon by Richard Kalinoski, directed by Irina Brook. In this play, he portrayed a survivor of the Armenian Genocide, a performance that earned him the prestigious Molière Award for Best Actor.

1.3. Film and Television Career

Simon Abkarian's film and television career showcases his remarkable versatility, with roles spanning various genres and languages. He has collaborated with prominent directors and appeared in both independent and mainstream productions, including significant contributions to voice acting.

2.1. Films

2.2. Television Series

4.1. Critical Reception

Abkarian has consistently received positive critical reviews for his acting. A major highlight of his career was his performance in the 2001 play Beast on the Moon, for which he received the prestigious Molière Award for Best Actor. This award underscored his talent and his ability to embody complex characters with depth and authenticity.

4.2. Cultural and Social Impact

Abkarian's Armenian heritage has profoundly influenced his work, leading him to take on roles that shed light on significant historical and social issues. His performances in films such as Atom Egoyan's Ararat, The Cut, and 1915 have brought the narrative of the Armenian Genocide to a wider audience, contributing to its remembrance and understanding. By portraying figures like Arshile Gorky and characters directly impacted by the genocide, Abkarian uses his platform to highlight the human cost of historical atrocities and promote human rights.

Furthermore, his role as Missak Manouchian, an Armenian poet and key figure in the French Resistance, in The Army of Crime, emphasizes the contributions of Armenians to broader historical struggles for freedom and justice. These roles not only showcase his acting prowess but also serve as a bridge between historical events and contemporary audiences, fostering dialogue about identity, resilience, and the fight against oppression.

Abkarian's contributions extend beyond specific historical narratives. His diverse filmography across French and international cinema has established him as a versatile and respected actor. Through his varied roles, he has enriched the cultural landscape, demonstrating the power of art to explore complex human experiences and contribute to social awareness.