Valérie Lemercier Reveals 24-Year Age Gap with Partner, Opens Up About Mental Health Journey
PARIS – Actress and director Valérie Lemercier publicly disclosed details about her personal life during an appearance on the French program “The Papotin Meetings,” revealing a romantic relationship with a man 24 years her junior. The 61-year-old Lemercier confirmed her fiancé is 37, sparking conversation about age-gap relationships and her previously private life.
The revelation came during a question-and-answer session with journalists, were Lemercier playfully confirmed the age difference after being asked about her marital status. While acknowledging the gap with a self-deprecating “You are right,” she remained upbeat, describing a shared passion for cooking with her partner, who works in film special effects. This disclosure marks a rare instance of Lemercier discussing her romantic life publicly, offering a glimpse beyond her celebrated career.
Lemercier also touched upon deeply personal experiences, recounting a month-and-a-half stay in the Sainte-Anne hospital in Paris at age 23 due to depression. “It saved me,” she stated, adding that she experienced similar episodes “three, four times” but always recovered. She previously discussed this period in a 2025 interview with TF1’s “Seven to eight,” humorously suggesting ironing linen as a coping mechanism.
The actress also addressed questions about not having children,stating simply,”I could not have it,I did not have this chance,we will say.”
The “Papotin Meetings” have recently featured high-profile guests including Charlotte Gainsbourg, Clara Luciani, and Antoine Dupont, and notably, French President Emmanuel Macron, highlighting the program’s growing platform for intimate and revealing conversations.
