Laetitia Casta is a French supermodel and actress who rose to international fame in the 1990s.
With her striking blue eyes, full lips, and effortlessly elegant presence, she became one of the most recognizable faces in the fashion world.
From gracing the covers of top magazines to working with the biggest designers and later transitioning into acting, Laetitia has built a lasting career that continues to inspire.
Early Life and Background
Laetitia Casta was born on May 11, 1978, in Pont-Audemer, Normandy, France. She grew up in a multicultural household with a Corsican father and a Norman mother, which contributed to her distinctive Mediterranean beauty. As a child, she was energetic and creative, showing an early interest in the arts.
Her life changed dramatically at the age of 15 when she was discovered by a modeling agent while on a family vacation in Corsica. This chance encounter led her to sign with a modeling agency, marking the beginning of her journey into the fashion world.
Rise to Supermodel Fame
Laetitia Casta’s career skyrocketed in the mid-1990s when she became one of the top models of her generation. She graced the covers of major fashion magazines, including Vogue, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, and Cosmopolitan. Her natural beauty and captivating charm made her a favorite of designers and photographers alike.
She became a prominent face for Guess campaigns early in her career and later worked with luxury brands such as Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, and Givenchy. One of her most iconic roles in fashion was becoming a Victoria’s Secret Angel, solidifying her place among the elite supermodels of the era.
The Marianne Symbol and French Cultural Icon
Beyond modeling, Laetitia Casta was chosen as the official symbol of Marianne in 1999, representing the national emblem of France.
This honor further cemented her status as a cultural icon in her home country. Her image was used in town halls and on official government documents, showcasing her as a representation of French beauty and elegance.
Acting Career and Transition to Film
Laetitia Casta successfully transitioned from modeling to acting, proving her versatility and depth as a performer. She made her film debut in Asterix & Obelix Take on Caesar (1999), playing the role of Falbala.
Over the years, she took on more serious and diverse roles in French cinema, earning critical acclaim for her performances. She portrayed Brigitte Bardot in Gainsbourg: A Heroic Life (2010), played a strong-willed heroine in The Maiden and the Wolves (2008), and took on a complex role in A Faithful Man (2018), a romantic drama directed by Louis Garrel.
Each of these films showcased her ability to handle different genres, from historical dramas to biographical and romance films, further establishing her as a respected actress in the French film industry.
Personal Life
Laetitia Casta has been known for keeping her personal life relatively private. She has had high-profile relationships, including with actor Stefano Accorsi, with whom she shares two children. In 2017, she married French actor and director Louis Garrel.
She has also been involved in humanitarian work, advocating for various causes, including children’s rights and environmental issues.
